Dendrobium scopula
Also known as: The Small Twig Dendrobium or Herpetophytum lucidum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
General Information
The Small Twig Dendrobium is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. The name refers to the plant habit.
Plant Description
Sympodial. Grows to 60cm. Each new growth has numerous erect leaves that grow to 1-2.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 60cm
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
Climate
Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 51mm to 272mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 67% to 74%, highest in September and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 16C to 28C, highest in April (18C to 28C) and lowest in January (16C to 27C).
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 dehydrationFertiliser
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
This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs.

