Dendrobium halmaheirense

Also known as: The Halmahera Island Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Halmahera Island Dendrobium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. It is named after the Part of the Moluccas.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 23-35cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 17cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 23-35cm

Flowers

Numerous short lasting blossoms appear

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 104mm to 289mm per day, heaviest in December and lightest in April. Temperature ranges from 23C to 31C, highest in April (25C to 31C) and lowest in July (23C to 30C).

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.

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.

Potting

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