Dendrobium oblongum

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

General Information

The Oblong Dendrobium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. The name refers to the lip shape.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 7cm long

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 94mm to 208mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in February. Temperature ranges from 12C to 26C, highest in April (13C to 26C) and lowest in February (12C to 23C).

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 during Spring.

Potting

This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.