Dendrobium lasioglossum

Also known as: The Shaggy Lipped Dendrobium or Callista lasioglossa in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Shaggy Lipped Dendrobium is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 25-60cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 2.5-5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2.5-60cm. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 3mm to 1176mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 64% to 93%, highest in August and lowest in December. Temperature ranges from 16C to 32C, highest in April (21C to 32C) and lowest in January (16C to 25C).

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.

Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.