Dendrobium cochleatum

Also known as: The Shell in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Shell is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 80cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 3.5-6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 80cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 245mm to 506mm per day, heaviest in December and lightest in May. Temperature ranges from 23C to 32C, highest in May (24C to 32C) and lowest in January (23C to 17C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

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.