Dendrobium erectum

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

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 20-40cm. Each new growth has numerous erect lance shaped leaves that grow to 3.6-4.6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 20-40cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 131mm to 303mm 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 17C to 29C, highest in May (18C to 29C) and lowest in January (17C to 27C).

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. Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round.

Potting

This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs.