Dendrobium samoense

Also known as: The Samoan Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Samoa

General Information

The Samoan Dendrobium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Samoa.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 50cm. Each new growth has numerous elliptic leaves that grow to 6-9cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 50cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 81mm to 455mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 75% to 81%, highest in July and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 23C to 30C, highest in May (24C to 30C) 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.

Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydration

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.