Dendrobium erubescens

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

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 40cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery erect leaves that grow to 4-6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 40cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 102mm to 243mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in January. Temperature ranges from 12C to 28C, highest in July (14C to 28C) and lowest in February (12C to 24C).

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.

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.