Dendrobium simplex

Also known as: Dendrobium sarcopodioides in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

Dendrobium simplex is a sympodial cold to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 3-6cm. Each new growth has numerous elliptic leaves that grow to 2-4cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1-2cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 102mm to 244mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in January. Temperature ranges from 10C to 26C, highest in July (12C to 26C) and lowest in February (10C to 22C).

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.

Potting

This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.