Dendrobium williamsianum

Also known as: Williams' Dendrobium or Dendrobium williamsianum var. chanii Dendrobium williamsianum var. williamsianum Dendrobium x williamsianum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

Williams' Dendrobium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. It is named after the Orchid Collector in SE Asia in the 19th century.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 45-350cm. Each new growth has numerous oblong shaped leaves that grow to 5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 46-500cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 46mm to 320mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 84% to 94%, highest in January and lowest in September. Temperature ranges from 23C to 31C, highest in May (25C to 31C) and lowest in January (23C to 27C).

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.

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. Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant during Spring.