Dendrobium exilicaule

Also known as: The Thin Stemed Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Thailand

General Information

The Thin Stemed Dendrobium is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Thailand.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 30cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 8cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 30cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 56mm to 325mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 66% to 84%, highest in October and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 19C to 31C, highest in March (21C to 31C) and lowest in January (19C to 28C).

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.

Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant during Spring.