Dendrobium bismarckiense

Also known as: The Bismark Mountains Dendrobium or Amblyanthe bismarckiensis in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Bismark Mountains Dendrobium is an orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. It is named after a mountain range of New Guinea.

Plant Description

Grows to 45cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 13-15cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 30cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

These orchids thrive in cool, conditions with good airflow. When cultivated they will thrive in a cool, sheltered environment such as a shaded greenhouse, or if grown in cooler climates they can be grown in the garden in areas where they are protected from frost and receive shade throughout the year, though they may be able to tolerate some morning sun during winter.

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 52mm to 271mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 67% to 74%, highest in September and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 13C to 26C, highest in April (16C to 26C) and lowest in January (13C to 24C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

Fertiliser

Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.

Use balanced fertiliser year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant during Spring.

Potting

Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.