Dendrobium flagellum

Also known as: Dockrillia flagella in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

Dendrobium flagellum is a sympodial warm to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 50cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 31-36cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 20cm

Care Notes

These orchids have a fine root system that can quickly die back if left dry for too long, but also does not like to be kept wet, so water regularly but ensure that the mix is dry before watering. 

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 60mm to 179mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in November. Humidity ranges from 74% to 82%, highest in January and lowest in June. Temperature ranges from 21C to 34C, highest in May (23C to 34C) and lowest in January (21C to 31C).

Watering

These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.

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. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant during Spring.

Potting

These plants are quite forgiving and will do well repotted ever 2-3 years. The mix should be coarse, well draining, and allow space for air to move and for roots to grow. 

Alternatively, these plants will also do well mounted to tree fern or cork slabs, or mounted to trees.

Best time for repotting or mounting the orchids is the end of winter when new growths start to appear. Avoid repotting during hot weather,