Dendrobium plebeium

Also known as: The Insignificant Dendrobium or Ceraia plebeja Aporum plebejum Ceraia plebeia in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Insignificant Dendrobium is a sympodial hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 10cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 5-7cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 10cm. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Flowers

Numerous fragrant blossoms appear

Fragrance

The orchid is fragrant.

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Fragrant:

• IsFragrant

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 98mm to 187mm per day, heaviest in March and lightest in April. Temperature ranges from 23C to 30C, highest in April (26C to 30C) and lowest in February (23C to 28C).

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.