Dendrobium rhodocentrum

Also known as: The Rose Red Spur Dendrobium or Callista rhodocentra in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Rose Red Spur Dendrobium is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 10-20cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 8cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 10-20cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 3mm to 1176mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 64% to 93%, highest in August and lowest in December. Temperature ranges from 19C to 35C, highest in April (24C to 35C) and lowest in January (19C 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.

Be sure to provide strong air circulation after watering to prevent fungal and bacterial infections from water sitting on leaves.

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. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant during Spring.