Dendrobium sumatranum

General Information

Dendrobium sumatranum is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 150cm. Each new growth has numerous thick oblong shaped leaves that grow to 5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 60-150cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 152mm to 518mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 81% to 85%, highest in May and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 23C to 31C, highest in November (24C to 31C) and lowest in January (23C to 30C).

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.

Use balanced fertiliser year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round.