My sister gave this plant to me, what is it? (pics included)

[junklecat]

My little sister gave me this orchid, and I have no idea what kind it is. I faintly remeber it having yellow flowers, but I'm not sure. The lable on the pot reads: "5in CP Orchid Assorted Klehm." The plant also recently sprouted a new.... branch? I don't know what you would call it, but I'm wondering if the roots should stay in the air or if I should cover them up? I have pictures included.

[hrrush]

Looks some kind of Dendrobium.

[RosieC]

My first thought was Dendrobium but then I'm no expert.

[camille1585]

Yup, I agree, it's a dendrobium, but not the slightest clue as to exactly what! Normally those roots are fine. They'll grow down into the medium by themselves. It wouldn't hurt to repot if that's never been done before.

[junklecat]

Thanks! When I repot, should I leave the roots out or cover them? Sorry if this is common knowledge.

[camille1585]

Originally Posted by junklecat

Thanks! When I repot, should I leave the roots out or cover them? Sorry if this is common knowledge.

You could always put a little bit of medium over them. Just be careful not to bury the base of the other canes too much.

[kiki-do]

Dendrobiums tend to want to be rootbound. How long have you and/or your sister have it? Perhaps it doesn't need repotting just yet. It looks nice and healthy. The roots tend to reach out all over the place anyway. The OB has a great section on Dendrobium care.
The writing says it's a 5" Clay Pot.....Klehm doesn't ring a bell with me. Sorry I can't help you more. I have a few dendrobiums and they are pretty easy to grow and hardy plants.

[junklecat]

Thanks! I think we've had it for about a year...

[Junebug]

Yep, that's a Den. and more than likely the Phal. type that does not loose it's leaves in winter. You could repot now, while those roots are still young and before they get too long. I would recommend using a slotted orchid pot so air can get to the roots. I grow several dends. and repotted them this spring into a mixture of med. size coconut husk chunks (available on-line), charcoal, and perlite and they love it. Don't be tempted to remove the old shriveled canes until they are completely leafless, yellow, and shriveled and be sure to remove any dead roots if you decide to repot. Good Luck.

[kiki-do]

And presoak your medium for 24 hours before using.