Dendrobium reflexitepalum is an orchid species known for its floral characteristics. This epiphytic plant originates from lightly forested areas in Indonesia, specifically Java, Sumatra, and Kalimantan Borneo, thriving at elevations between 200 and 1000 meters. It forms erect stems in its youth that gradually become pendulous with age. The small, single flowers, measuring around 0.2 inches, often display a long white bilobed lip.
Cultivation Requirements
Light
Dendrobium reflexitepalum thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat under a forest canopy. Place the orchid near an east or south-facing window for suitable light. Direct midday sun can cause leaf scorching, so filter strong light with a sheer curtain. Dark leaves indicate insufficient light, while a reddish tint suggests excessive exposure.
Temperature
This orchid prefers warm to hot temperatures, aligning with its tropical origins. Daytime temperatures of 70°F to 85°F are suitable. A consistent 10°F night temperature drop (60°F to 65°F) can stimulate flowering. Avoid temperatures below 60°F.
Humidity
High humidity (50% to 70%) is important for Dendrobium reflexitepalum, reflecting its moist native environment. To achieve this indoors, use a room humidifier or place the orchid on a pebble tray, ensuring the pot does not sit directly in water. Higher humidity during the active growing season supports development.
Watering
Allow the potting medium to dry slightly between waterings. Water thoroughly in the morning, letting excess drain completely. This ensures roots receive moisture while preventing waterlogging and root issues. Rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water are preferable to tap water, which can cause mineral buildup. Water more frequently in spring and summer (active growing season), reducing frequency in fall and winter as growth slows.
Potting Medium
Dendrobium reflexitepalum requires a well-draining, airy potting medium mimicking its natural growth on trees or rocks. A mix primarily of fir bark is suitable, often combined with sphagnum moss or perlite for enhanced drainage and aeration. Select the smallest pot that comfortably accommodates the root system, as these orchids prefer to be somewhat root-bound. Clay pots also aid air circulation and drying due to their porosity.
Fertilization
Fertilize regularly during the active growing season to support the orchid’s health. A balanced orchid-specific fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) is recommended. Dilute to half strength to prevent root burn, applying every two to four weeks from spring through summer. Reduce or stop fertilization in fall and winter when growth slows. Periodically flush the potting medium with plain water to prevent fertilizer salt accumulation.
Air Circulation
Good air circulation is important for Dendrobium reflexitepalum to maintain plant health and prevent fungal and bacterial infections. Stagnant, humid air creates an environment conducive to pathogens. Consistent air movement helps dry leaves and media surfaces quickly after watering, reducing disease risk.
Flowering and Dormancy
Dendrobium reflexitepalum produces small, solitary blooms during fall, winter, and early spring. Flowering is triggered by a slight drop in nighttime temperatures. Adequate light exposure during the growing period also encourages bloom development.
Many Dendrobium species benefit from reduced watering and cooler temperatures during cooler months (fall through winter). This “dry rest” can stimulate future blooms. Water sparingly during this time, only enough to prevent pseudobulbs from shriveling. Some Dendrobium varieties are deciduous and may shed their leaves during this period.
Repotting
Repotting Dendrobium reflexitepalum is necessary every two to three years, or when the potting medium decomposes, loses drainage, or becomes compacted. The best time to repot is in spring, after flowering and when new root growth begins. Before repotting, soak the orchid thoroughly to make roots pliable and reduce breakage.
Carefully remove the plant from its old pot, gently detangling roots and trimming dead or decaying portions. Place the orchid in a pot of similar size or slightly larger, ensuring the plant’s base is level with the rim. Fill the pot with fresh, well-draining orchid mix, gently tapping to settle the medium and remove air pockets. Avoid watering the newly repotted orchid for about three days to allow root wounds to callous, which helps prevent rot.
Propagation
Dendrobium reflexitepalum can be propagated through division of pseudobulbs or keikis. Division involves carefully separating mature pseudobulbs, ensuring each new section has at least three to five healthy pseudobulbs and a good root system. This method is best performed during repotting when the plant is already out of its pot.
Keikis, small plantlets forming on mature pseudobulbs, provide another means of propagation. Once a keiki develops roots several inches long, it can be gently twisted or cut from the parent plant. These new plantlets can then be potted individually in a suitable orchid medium, allowing them to establish. Consistent humidity and warmth support the successful establishment of both divisions and keikis.
Common Problems and Solutions
Issues can arise when cultivating Dendrobium reflexitepalum, often related to environmental conditions. Yellowing leaves indicate either overwatering or excessive direct sunlight. If yellowing on older canes (fall or winter), it might be a natural part of the plant’s cycle. Adjusting watering frequency or light exposure can resolve these concerns.
Shriveled pseudobulbs signal underwatering. Mushy roots or a foul odor from the potting medium are signs of root rot, caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Improving watering habits and ensuring the medium dries adequately can mitigate these problems. A lack of blooms stems from insufficient light or the absence of the necessary temperature drop that triggers flowering. Common pests like mealybugs or scale can be managed with insecticidal soap.