Dendrobium igneoniveum

Also known as: The Red And White Dendrobium or Distichorchis igneonivea in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Red And White Dendrobium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 40cm. Each new growth has numerous oblong shaped leaves that grow to 5-6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 40cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 152mm to 518mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 81% to 85%, highest in May and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 18C to 26C, highest in November (18C to 26C) and lowest in January (18C to 24C).

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.