Dendrobium dalatense

Also known as: The Dalat Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Dalat Dendrobium is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. It is named after a province of Vietnam.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 30cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 30cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 5mm to 257mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 64% to 84%, highest in September and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 13C to 29C, highest in April (18C to 29C) and lowest in January (13C 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.

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.

Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.

Potting

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