Dendrobium scoriarum

Also known as: In China Guang Xi Shi Hu or Dendrobium guangxiense in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: China

General Information

In China Guang Xi Shi Hu is a sympodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to China.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 60cm. Each new growth has numerous erect oblong shaped leaves that grow to 4cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 60cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 13mm to 312mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 61% to 89%, highest in July and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 0C to 25C, highest in September (18C to 25C) and lowest in January (0C to 17C).

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.

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.