Dendrobium moluccense

Also known as: The Molucca Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 18-20cm. Each new growth has numerous thick leaves that grow to 5-6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 13-16cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 114mm to 638mm per day, heaviest in December and lightest in May. Humidity ranges from 77% to 84%, highest in December and lowest in August. Temperature ranges from 23C to 31C, highest in May (24C to 31C) and lowest in January (23C to 16C).

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. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant.

Potting

Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.