Dendrobium salomonense

Also known as: The Solomon Island Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Solomon Island Dendrobium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 100-200cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 15cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 100-200cm. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Flowers

Numerous short lasting blossoms appear

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 23C to 32C, highest in June (24C to 32C) and lowest in January (23C to 29C).

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.