Gastrochilus dasypogon

Also known as: The Dense Beard Gastrochilus or Epidendrum umbellatum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Bhutan Nepal

General Information

The Dense Beard Gastrochilus is a monopodial cold to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Bhutan and Nepal.

Plant Description

Monopodial. Grows to 3-15cm. Each new growth has numerous thick oblong shaped leaves that grow to 7.5cm long

Flowers

Numerous long lasting blossoms appear

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Bark
• Charcoal
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 8mm to 798mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 73% to 95%, highest in July and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 2C to 19C, highest in July (14C to 19C) and lowest in January (2C to 8C).

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.

Potting

Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done annually.