Dendrobium tenue

Also known as: The Delicate Dendrobium or Ceraia tenuis in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Delicate Dendrobium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. The name refers to the stems.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 18cm. Each new growth has numerous thick terete shaped leaves that grow to 7cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 18cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 81mm to 323mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 73% to 84%, highest in June and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 23C to 33C, highest in March (25C to 33C) and lowest in February (23C to 30C).

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.

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

Potting

Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.