Dendrobium longicaule

Also known as: The Long or Dendrobium sarcodes var. majus Dendrobium sarcodes var. sarcodes Grastidium sarcodes Dendrobium sarcodes in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Long is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Each new growth has numerous leathery elliptic, lance shaped, oblong shaped leaves that grow to 4-10cm long

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Bark

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 292mm to 442mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in January. Temperature ranges from 22C to 33C, highest in May (23C to 33C) and lowest in February (22C 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.