Dendrobium violascens
Also known as: The Purple Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
General Information
The Purple Dendrobium is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.
Plant Description
Sympodial. Grows to 18-28cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery lance shaped leaves that grow to 10-11cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 18-28cm
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
Climate
Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 53mm to 239mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in August. Temperature ranges from 18C to 24C, highest in May (19C to 24C) and lowest in July (18C to 23C).
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 dehydrationFertiliser
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.