Dendrobium ruginosum

Also known as: Sayeria ruginosa in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

Dendrobium ruginosum is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 8-25cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery erect, lance shaped leaves that grow to 4-12cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 8-25cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 203mm to 297mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 76% to 82%, highest in December and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 16C to 24C, highest in June (17C to 24C) and lowest in January (16C to 22C).

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.