Dendrobium unicarinatum

Also known as: The Trunk Loving Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Fiji

General Information

The Trunk Loving Dendrobium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Fiji.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 60cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped oblong shaped leaves that grow to 4.5-6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 55cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high 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 13C to 27C, highest in July (18C to 27C) and lowest in January (13C to 24C).

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.