Dendrobium chrysoglossum

General Information

Dendrobium chrysoglossum is a sympodial free-flowering orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 20-71cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 5-8cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 20-30cm

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear readily

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 51mm to 272mm 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 14C to 27C, highest in April (17C to 27C) and lowest in January (14C to 26C).

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.

Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydration

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

This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs.