Dendrobium maliliense

Also known as: Cadetia maliliensis in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 2cm. Each new growth has numerous thick oblong shaped leaves that grow to 1.2cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.5-0.8cm

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 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.

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.