Dendrobium cultrifolium

Also known as: Ceraia cultrifolia in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 70cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 9cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 70cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 132mm to 302mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 80% to 84%, highest in January and lowest in May. Temperature ranges from 14C to 26C, highest in May (15C to 26C) and lowest in January (14C to 23C).

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.