Dendrobium rubropictum

Also known as: The Red Painted Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 40-65cm. Each new growth has numerous erect leaves that grow to 10-15cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 30-50cm

Flowers

Numerous short lasting blossoms appear

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 122mm to 429mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 78% to 82%, highest in July and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 23C to 31C, highest in January (24C to 31C) and lowest in January (23C to 30C).

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.