Dendrobium sarcochilus

Also known as: The Fleshy Lip Dendrobium or Dendrobium sarcochilus var. megalorhizum Dendrobium sarcochilus var. sarcochilus Dendrobium megalorhizum Cannaeorchis megalorhiza Grastidium megalorhizum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: New Caledonia

General Information

The Fleshy Lip Dendrobium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to New Caledonia.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 100-300cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 12cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 100-300cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 51mm to 145mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in April. Humidity ranges from 67% to 76%, highest in October and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 16C to 30C, highest in June (23C to 30C) and lowest in February (16C to 24C).

Watering

These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.

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.

Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.