40 Popular Types Of Bulbophyllum Pictorial Guide

Bulbophyllum is a genus of orchids that comprises more than 2,000 species. These orchids are distributed throughout the tropical regions of the world, and they are known for their unique and often bizarre-looking flowers. One of the most fascinating species of Bulbophyllum is the Bullbophyllum orchid.

The Bullbophyllum orchid is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The plant is an epiphytic or lithophytic species that grows on tree trunks or rocks. Its name is derived from the Latin words “bulbus,” which means bulb, and “phyllon,” which means leaf.

Bullbophyllum orchids are highly diverse in appearance, with some species having large flowers that can reach up to 30 centimeters in length, while others have smaller flowers that are less than a centimeter in size. The flowers are usually yellow or brown, with some species having red or purple blooms.

One of the most fascinating things about the bullbophyllum orchid is the way it attracts pollinators. Unlike most orchids that attract bees and other insects with their fragrance, Bullbophyllum orchids use deception to lure their pollinators. The flowers emit a scent that mimics the pheromones of female insects, attracting male insects that attempt to mate with the flowers. As the insects try to mate with the flowers, they inadvertently pick up pollen and transfer it to other flowers, pollinating them in the process.

Another interesting feature of the bullbophyllum orchid is its unique growth habit. Unlike most orchids that grow from a central stem, the Bullbophyllum orchid produces pseudobulbs, which are swollen stems that store water and nutrients. The plant also produces a basal rosette of leaves that are typically green and shiny.

The Bullbophyllum orchid is a popular species among orchid enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and growth habits. However, it can be difficult to cultivate as it requires specific growing conditions to thrive. These orchids prefer high humidity and low light conditions, as well as well-draining soil that allows the roots to breathe.

In conclusion, the Bullbophyllum orchid is a fascinating species of orchid that has captured the attention of plant enthusiasts for its unique appearance and growth habits. Its deceptive pollination strategy and unusual growth habit make it a truly remarkable plant. While it can be challenging to cultivate, the beauty and intrigue of the Bullbophyllum orchid make it well worth the effort for those who are up to the challenge.

Here are 40 Popular Types Of Bulbophyllum Pictorial Guide:

Bulbophyllum Orthoglossum

Bulbophyllum Orthoglossum is a species of orchid native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Vietnam. It is a small epiphytic plant that typically grows in damp, shady environments such as rainforests. The plant has small, round pseudobulbs and delicate leaves that are typically a light green color. Its flowers are small and clustered together in groups, with a pale yellow-green color and reddish-brown markings on the lip. It is a popular species among orchid collectors and growers due to its unique appearance and relatively easy cultivation requirements.

Bulbophyllum Wendlandianum

Bulbophyllum Wendlandianum is a species of epiphytic orchid native to Southeast Asia, known for its small, delicate flowers with yellow petals and red stripes. It typically grows in humid, shady environments and is prized by orchid enthusiasts for its unique appearance and fragrance.

Bulbophyllum Umbellatum

Bulbophyllum Umbellatum is an orchid species that is indigenous to Southeast Asia. It is a small epiphytic plant with thin, wiry stems and round bulbs that produce a single, delicate flower. The flowers of this species are typically yellow to orange in color and grow in small clusters. Bulbophyllum Umbellatum is a popular ornamental plant in cultivation, prized for its unique and attractive appearance.

Bulbophyllum Spathulatum

Bulbophyllum Spathulatum is an epiphytic orchid species native to Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its small size, with bulbs measuring only a few centimeters in length, and its unique spatula-shaped leaves. The flowers are small and yellow, with a red or brownish-red lip, and grow on a drooping inflorescence. This species is prized by orchid enthusiasts for its unusual appearance and ease of cultivation.

Bulbophyllum Schinzianum

Bulbophyllum Schinzianum is a species of orchid native to the African continent. It is a small, epiphytic orchid with clustered pseudobulbs and long, thin leaves. The flowers are small and distinctive, with bright orange-yellow sepals and petals that are heavily spotted with brown-purple markings. It blooms in the fall and winter and is often found growing on trees in moist, shady forests.

Bulbophyllum Rothschildianum

Bulbophyllum Rothschildianum is a species of orchid native to Borneo, Sumatra, and Peninsular Malaysia. It is an epiphytic plant, meaning it grows on trees, and it produces large, yellow flowers with maroon spots. The plant has unique adaptations for pollination, including a sticky pad on the column of the flower that traps insects. It is highly valued by collectors and enthusiasts for its striking appearance and unusual reproductive strategies.

Bulbophyllum Putidum

Bulbophyllum Putidum is a species of epiphytic orchid that is native to Southeast Asia. It produces small, yellow-green flowers with a strong, unpleasant odor. The plant has a bulbous base and thin, elongated leaves. It typically grows in humid forests and can be found at elevations ranging from sea level up to 1000 meters.

Bulbophyllum Phalaenopsis

Bulbophyllum Phalaenopsis is a species of orchid that belongs to the genus Bulbophyllum. It is known for its vibrant, intricate, and delicately shaped flowers that bloom on a long stem. The flowers are usually purple or burgundy in color, with a distinct white or yellow center. This species is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its striking appearance.

Bulbophyllum Odoratissimum

Bulbophyllum Odoratissimum is a species of orchid that is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Malaysia. It is known for its distinctive and pleasant fragrance, which is often described as spicy and sweet. This orchid typically grows in humid forests and can be found growing on trees or rocks. It produces small flowers that are yellow and maroon in color and bloom throughout the year.

Bulbophyllum Neilgherrense

Bulbophyllum Neilgherrense is a species of epiphytic orchid native to the Western Ghats of India. It produces small, delicate flowers with a pleasant fragrance and is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant. The plant has unique bulbous pseudobulbs and requires high humidity and bright, indirect light to thrive.

Bulbophyllum Membranaceum

Bulbophyllum Membranaceum is a species of orchid that is native to Southeast Asia. It is a small epiphytic plant with oval-shaped pseudobulbs and delicate, membranous leaves. Its striking flowers are borne on a long inflorescence and feature a distinctive, fringed lip. The plant is highly prized by orchid enthusiasts for its beauty and unusual growth habits.

Bulbophyllum Medusae

Bulbophyllum Medusae is a species of epiphytic orchid native to the Philippines. It is known for its unique and striking appearance, with long, thin, and curly sepals that resemble the snakes on the head of the mythological creature Medusa. The plant produces small flowers with red and yellow coloring, and it thrives in warm and humid environments. It is a popular ornamental plant among orchid enthusiasts due to its unusual and captivating appearance.

Bulbophyllum Mandibulare

Bulbophyllum Mandibulare is a species of orchid native to the Philippines. It is characterized by its distinctive, jaw-like lip that resembles a pair of mandibles. The flowers are small, measuring only about 1cm in length, and are typically yellow or orange with red markings. This species is epiphytic, meaning it grows on the surface of other plants, and can be found in humid forests at elevations between 500 and 1100m.

Bulbophyllum Macranthum

Bulbophyllum Macranthum is a species of orchid known for its large, showy flowers. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines, and can be found growing in humid, tropical forests. The plant typically produces one or two flowers at a time, with each flower measuring up to 10cm across. The petals and sepals are a pale yellow-green color, with a dark red lip that is often covered in fine hairs. This species is popular among orchid enthusiasts for its striking appearance and relatively easy care.

Bulbophyllum Longiflorum

Bulbophyllum Longiflorum is a species of epiphytic orchid native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its long, slender, and fragrant flowers that can grow up to 20 centimeters in length. The plant is characterized by its bulbous stem and fleshy leaves, which are adapted to survive in humid, forested environments. It is a popular ornamental plant among orchid enthusiasts and is often cultivated in greenhouses and specialized gardens.

Bulbophyllum Lasiochilum

Bulbophyllum Lasiochilum is a species of epiphytic orchid found in the Philippines. It has unique, striking flowers with green and brown-striped sepals and petals and a prominent, hairy lip. This orchid requires high humidity and filtered light to thrive and is popular among orchid enthusiasts for its unusual appearance.

Bulbophyllum Guttulatum

Bulbophyllum Guttulatum is a species of orchid known for its unique and striking flowers. The plant features thin, wiry stems with small, rounded leaves and produces clusters of small, vibrant yellow and red flowers. Native to Southeast Asia, Bulbophyllum Guttulatum is often grown as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.

Bulbophyllum Graveolens

Bulbophyllum Graveolens is a species of epiphytic orchid native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Vietnam. It is characterized by its small bulbous pseudobulbs and its unique floral fragrance, which has been described as a mix of spicy and sweet aromas. The flowers are typically yellow or orange, and the plant blooms in the spring and summer months. It is a popular choice among orchid enthusiasts for its beautiful appearance and pleasant scent.

Bulbophyllum Frostii

Bulbophyllum Frostii is a species of orchid native to Papua New Guinea. It has a small, delicate appearance with vibrant green leaves and striking purple and white flowers that grow in clusters. This orchid thrives in warm, humid environments and is often cultivated as a houseplant for its unique and attractive appearance.

Bulbophyllum Flavescens

Bulbophyllum Flavescens is a species of orchid known for its small, yellow flowers with red markings. Southeast Asian nations including Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia are home to this plant’s native range. The plant grows as an epiphyte, meaning it grows on trees, and is typically found in humid forests. It is a popular species among orchid enthusiasts for its unique appearance and relatively easy cultivation.

Bulbophyllum Falcatum

Bulbophyllum Falcatum is a species of epiphytic orchid native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It has distinctive curved leaves and produces small, fragrant flowers with a white and pink coloration. The plant typically grows in humid, tropical environments and is often cultivated as an ornamental species for its unique appearance and pleasant aroma.

Bulbophyllum Fascinator

Bulbophyllum Fascinator is a species of epiphytic orchid that is native to the Philippines. It has a small bulb and produces a single flower that is about 2 cm wide. The flower is characterized by its unusual shape and color, with a bright yellow lip and reddish-brown sepals and petals. The plant prefers humid environments and is commonly grown as an ornamental species.

Bulbophyllum Exaltatum

Bulbophyllum Exaltatum is a species of orchid that is native to the Philippines. It is known for its small size and striking appearance, featuring bright yellow flowers with maroon spots. The plant grows as an epiphyte, meaning it attaches itself to other plants for support rather than growing in soil. It is a popular ornamental plant among orchid enthusiasts.

Bulbophyllum Elassonotum

Bulbophyllum Elassonotum is an orchid species native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Malaysia. It is a small epiphytic plant with fragrant flowers that bloom in the fall. The flowers are characterized by their unusual shape and coloring, with yellow and maroon tones. It is a popular choice for orchid enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and ease of cultivation.

Bulbophyllum Echinolabium

Bulbophyllum Echinolabium is a species of epiphytic orchid found in the mountainous regions of Borneo. It is known for its striking flowers which have a bright yellow-green color and a unique, intricate shape with numerous spikes and tendrils. The plant typically blooms in the fall and winter, and requires high humidity and warm temperatures to thrive. It is a popular species among orchid collectors and enthusiasts.

Bulbophyllum Dentiferum

Bulbophyllum Dentiferum is a species of orchid native to the Philippines. It is a small epiphytic plant that typically grows in humid forests at elevations of 300 to 800 meters. The plant produces small, yellowish-green flowers with reddish-brown markings that emit a foul odor to attract its pollinators, flies.

Bulbophyllum Delitescens

Bulbophyllum Delitescens is a species of epiphytic orchid native to the Philippines. It produces small, fragrant flowers with a waxy texture that bloom in the summer and fall. The plant has pseudobulbs, which store water and nutrients, and requires a humid environment to thrive. It is a popular species among orchid enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and ease of cultivation.

Bulbophyllum Dearei

Bulbophyllum Dearei is a species of epiphytic orchid native to Papua New Guinea. It is characterized by its small size, with pseudobulbs measuring up to 2.5 cm in length, and its intricate flowers, which feature a yellow-green base color with reddish-brown stripes and a fringed lip. This species typically grows in humid forests at elevations of 1000 to 1800 meters.

Bulbophyllum Curtisii

Bulbophyllum Curtisii is a species of orchid native to Southeast Asia known for its small, fragrant flowers with bright yellow petals and maroon markings. It typically grows epiphytically on trees in humid forests and is popular among orchid enthusiasts for its unique appearance and ease of cultivation.

Bulbophyllum Cumingii

Bulbophyllum Cumingii is a species of epiphytic orchid native to the Philippines. It has small, intricately shaped flowers that range in color from yellow to red, and a distinctive, pendant growth habit. This species is highly prized among orchid collectors for its unique and beautiful blooms.

Bulbophyllum Corolliferum

Bulbophyllum Corolliferum is a species of orchid that is native to the Philippines. It is a small epiphytic orchid that grows in the humid forests of the region. The plant features unique flowers with long, thin petals and sepals that give it a delicate appearance. The flowers also have a distinct fragrance that is said to resemble that of ripe bananas. Due to its striking appearance and pleasant scent, Bulbophyllum Corolliferum is a popular species among orchid enthusiasts.

Bulbophyllum Cochleatum

Bulbophyllum Cochleatum is a species of orchid known for its distinctive twisted flowers. This epiphytic orchid is native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia and produces small, yellow flowers with a long, curly, and spiraled lip. It is often grown as a houseplant and is prized by orchid enthusiasts for its unique appearance.

Bulbophyllum Cernuum

Bulbophyllum Cernuum is a species of orchid native to Southeast Asia. It produces small, delicate flowers that are white with purple markings and have a pleasant, sweet scent. This epiphytic orchid is often found growing on trees in the rainforest, and it prefers warm, humid conditions with bright, filtered light.

Bulbophyllum Carunculatum

Bulbophyllum Carunculatum is a species of epiphytic orchid found in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Borneo. It has small, yellowish-green flowers with distinctive raised bumps, or caruncles, on the lip. This species is known for its unique and intricate floral morphology, and is popular among orchid enthusiasts. It typically grows in humid forests and can be found at elevations ranging from sea level up to around 1000 meters.

Bulbophyllum Brienianum

Bulbophyllum Brienianum is a species of orchid that is native to Papua New Guinea. It has small, delicate flowers that range in color from yellow-green to brown, and it is typically found growing on trees or rocks in humid forests. This orchid is known for its unique fragrance, which is often described as sweet and fruity. It is a popular choice among orchid enthusiasts and collectors.

Bulbophyllum Blumei

Bulbophyllum Blumei is a species of epiphytic orchid native to Southeast Asia. It has small, yellow-green flowers that grow in clusters on long, thin stems. The plant typically grows in humid, tropical environments and is prized by orchid enthusiasts for its unique appearance and fragrance.

Bulbophyllum Beccarii

Bulbophyllum Beccarii is a species of orchid native to Borneo and Sumatra. It has a small pseudobulb and produces a single leaf. The flowers are small and yellow-green in color, with a red lip. It is an epiphytic species that grows in humid forests at elevations of up to 1000 meters.

Bulbophyllum Barbigerum

Bulbophyllum Barbigerum is a species of orchid native to Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its small size, with pseudobulbs that are less than 3 cm tall, and its distinctive, beard-like tufts of white hairs on the lip of its flowers. The flowers themselves are small and numerous, and range in color from yellow to orange to red. This species is commonly grown as an ornamental plant and requires warm, humid conditions to thrive.

Bulbophyllum Arfakianum

Bulbophyllum Arfakianum is a species of epiphytic orchid found in the Arfak Mountains of Papua, Indonesia. It has small, delicate flowers with a distinct brown and yellow coloration and is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant.

Bulbophyllum Agastor

Bulbophyllum Agastor is a species of epiphytic orchid found in the Philippines. It has small, round pseudobulbs and narrow leaves, and produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers that are typically brownish-red in color. This species is known for its unique and intricate flower structure, which features long, thread-like extensions on the lip. It is a well-liked plant among collectors and orchid enthusiasts.

How to Grow and Care for Bulbophyllum

Bulbophyllum is a genus of orchids that includes over 2,000 species. They are known for their unique and diverse flower shapes and colors and are highly prized by orchid enthusiasts. Here are some tips for growing and caring for Bulbophyllum orchids:

• Light: Most Bulbophyllum species prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Some species, such as Bulbophyllum medusae, prefer lower light levels.

• Temperature: Bulbophyllum orchids generally prefer warm temperatures, with a minimum of around 60°F (15°C). Some species, such as Bulbophyllum echinolabium, prefer cooler temperatures.

• Watering: Bulbophyllum orchids prefer to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water them thoroughly when the top inch of the potting mix is dry. It is a well-liked plant among collectors and orchid enthusiasts.

• Humidity: Bulbophyllum orchids prefer high humidity, around 60–80%. You can increase humidity by placing the orchid on a tray of pebbles filled with water or by using a humidifier.

• Potting mix: Bulbophyllum orchids prefer a well-draining mix that is rich in organic matter, such as bark or sphagnum moss. Avoid the sun’s direct rays since they can burn the foliage.

• Fertilizer: Bulbophyllum orchids benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced orchid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every 2-3 weeks.

• Repotting: Bulbophyllum orchids should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when the potting mix breaks down and becomes compacted. Repot in the spring, after flowering has finished.

• Pests and diseases: Bulbophyllum orchids can be susceptible to pests such as mealybugs, scale, and spider mites. It is a well-liked plant among collectors and orchid enthusiasts. Watch for signs of fungal or bacterial infections, such as black spots on the leaves or stem, and treat promptly with a fungicide.

Overall, Bulbophyllum orchids can be challenging to grow but are highly rewarding for their unique and stunning flowers. With proper care, they can thrive and produce blooms year after year.

How To Propagate Bulbophyllum

Bulbophyllum is a genus of orchids that includes many species. Propagating Bulbophyllum can be done through various methods, such as division, back bulbs, and keiki propagation.

• Division: This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own growth point or “eye.” To do this, remove the plant from its pot and gently pull apart the rhizome into sections, making sure each section has roots attached. Replant each division in a small pot with fresh potting mix.

• Back Bulbs: Some species of Bulbophyllum produce “back bulbs,” which are older bulbs that have stopped producing new growth. These can be removed from the plant and planted in a separate pot. Back bulbs often have small plantlets or new growth points on them, which will produce new growth and eventually form a new plant.

• Keiki propagation: Keikis are small plantlets that develop on the stem of a mature Bulbophyllum plant. To propagate through keikis, wait until they have developed roots and are a few inches tall, then cut them off the parent plant and pot them up separately.

Regardless of the propagation method chosen, it’s important to provide the new plants with the right growing conditions, including bright but indirect light, high humidity, and well-draining potting mix.

Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Bulbophyllum

Q: What is Bulbophyllum?

A: Bulbophyllum is a large genus of orchids with over 2,000 species. They are known for their unique and often bizarre flower structures, which range in size from very small to very large.

Q: How do I care for a Bulbophyllum orchid?

A: Bullbophyllum orchids require high humidity, warm temperatures, and good air circulation. They should be grown in a well-draining mix and watered regularly. Fertilize monthly during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter.

Q:  How do I propagate a Bulbophyllum orchid?

A: Bullbophyllum orchids can be propagated by division, seed, or keiki (baby plants that grow on the side of the parent plant). Division is the most common method, and should be done when the plant outgrows its pot or becomes overcrowded.

Q: What pests and diseases affect Bulbophyllum orchids?

A: Common pests that can affect Bullbophyllum orchids include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Diseases such as fungal infections can also occur if the plant is overwatered or grown in poor conditions.

Q: What are some popular species of Bulbophyllum orchids?

A: Some popular species of Bulbophyllum orchids include B. longissimum, B. lobbii, B. phalaenopsis, B. macranthum, and B. medusae. Each species has its own unique flower structure and growing requirements, so it’s important to research the specific needs of the species you are growing.

Top 10 Interesting Facts About Bulbophyllum

1. The genus name, Bulbophyllum, is derived from the Latin words “bulbus,” meaning bulb or swelling, and “phylum,” meaning leaf. This refers to the bulbous pseudobulbs that are a distinctive feature of the genus.
2. Bulbophyllum orchids are found in a wide range of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and high-elevation cloud forests.
3. The flowers of Bulbophyllum orchids are known for their unusual shapes and often emit strong odors, which can range from pleasant to foul. These scents are thought to mimic those of female insects to attract male pollinators.
4. Some species of Bulbophyllum are known for their impressive size, with individual flowers measuring up to a foot across. Bulbophyllum phalaenopsis is particularly notable for its large flowers.
5. Many species of Bulbophyllum are epiphytes, meaning they grow on the branches of trees and obtain nutrients from the air and rain.
6. In addition to their showy flowers, Bulbophyllum orchids are also prized for their unique foliage. Some species have leaves that are patterned with stripes or spots, while others have thick, succulent leaves.
7. Bulbophyllum orchids are found throughout tropical regions of the world, with the greatest diversity occurring in Southeast Asia.
8. Many species of Bulbophyllum are threatened by habitat loss and collection for the horticultural trade. In some cases, entire populations of orchids have been wiped out due to overcollection.
9. Bulbophyllum orchids have been used for medicinal purposes by indigenous people in some parts of the world. Extracts from the plants have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.
10. Some species of Bulbophyllum have been used in traditional rituals and ceremonies by indigenous people, particularly in Southeast Asia. The plants are believed to have spiritual and magical properties and are used in a variety of ways.