Dendrobium oblongimentum

Also known as: The Oblong Mentum Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Guam

General Information

The Oblong Mentum Dendrobium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Guam.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 20-25cm. Each new growth has numerous terete shaped leaves that grow to 7cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 15-20cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 61mm to 391mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 81% to 87%, highest in September and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 23C to 29C, highest in June (25C to 29C) and lowest in February (23C to 27C).

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.

Potting

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