Dendrobium trilobulatum

Native to: Western - Fiji

General Information

Dendrobium trilobulatum is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Fiji.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 100-200cm. Each new growth has numerous elliptic oblong shaped leaves that grow to 8-14cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 100-200cm. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 13mm to 384mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 73% to 83%, highest in September and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 17C to 31C, highest in July (22C to 31C) and lowest in January (17C to 28C).

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. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant during Spring.