Dendrobium lepoense

General Information

Dendrobium lepoense is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 13-17cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery thick, lance shaped leaves that grow to 1.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 13-17cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 58mm to 252mm per day, heaviest in November and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 73% to 86%, highest in January and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 21C to 32C, highest in April (24C to 32C) and lowest in January (21C to 29C).

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.

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.