Dendrobium minutiflorum

Native to: Yunnan - China

General Information

Dendrobium minutiflorum is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to China.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 2.5-7.6cm. Each new growth has numerous oblong shaped leaves that grow to 1.5-5.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1.5-3cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 10mm to 201mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 65% to 88%, highest in October and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 8C to 29C, highest in April (19C to 29C) and lowest in January (8C to 20C).

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.