Dendrobium leptocladum

Also known as: The Thin Stemmed Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Thin Stemmed Dendrobium is a sympodial hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 40-50cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 40-50cm

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 28mm to 315mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 77% to 84%, highest in June and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 11C to 28C, highest in July (19C to 28C) and lowest in January (11C to 18C).

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.

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

Potting

This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs.