Dendrobium henanense

Native to: China

General Information

Dendrobium henanense is a sympodial cool growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to China.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 3-8cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped oblong shaped leaves that grow to 6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 3-8cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

These orchids thrive in cool, conditions with good airflow. When cultivated they will thrive in a cool, sheltered environment such as a shaded greenhouse, or if grown in cooler climates they can be grown in the garden in areas where they are protected from frost and receive shade throughout the year, though they may be able to tolerate some morning sun during winter.

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 8mm to 185mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 55% to 76%, highest in August and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from -7C to 32C, highest in July (22C to 32C) and lowest in January (-7C to 6C).

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. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round.