Dendrobium steatoglossum

Also known as: Cannaeorchis steatoglossa in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: New Caledonia

General Information

Dendrobium steatoglossum is a sympodial warm to hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to New Caledonia.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 100-300cm. Each new growth has numerous oblong shaped leaves that grow to 12.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 100-300cm

Flowers

Numerous long lasting blossoms appear

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high 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 15C to 29C, highest in June (22C to 29C) and lowest in February (15C to 23C).

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.

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.

Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.