Dendrobium coelandria

General Information

Dendrobium coelandria is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 30-40cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 4-5.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 30-40cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 155mm to 305mm per day, heaviest in November and lightest in June. Temperature ranges from 17C to 25C, highest in August (19C to 25C) and lowest in February (17C to 21C).

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.