How to Grow Bulbophyllum
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Bulbophyllum
Bulbophyllum spp.
flowerBulbophyllum is a diverse genus of epiphytic orchids comprising over 2,000 species, making it one of the largest orchid genera. Known for their unique, often bizarre flower shapes and fascinating pollination mechanisms, these orchids are found primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. Many species produce flowers with distinctive movements and unusual scents to attract specific pollinators.
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Example Bulbophyllum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Bulbophyllum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Bulbophyllum blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in tropical and subtropical zones 10-12; requires greenhouse cultivation in cooler climates
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Get my Bulbophyllum timeline →Growth Stages
Young Plantlet/Propagation
6-12 monthsTiny new growths emerging from rhizomes, developing initial roots and miniature pseudobulbs
Maintain high humidity (70-80%); provide warm temperatures (70-80°F); use well-draining medium; mist frequently; provide bright, filtered light
Vegetative Growth
1-2 yearsDevelopment of mature pseudobulbs and leaves; plant grows in size and strength with multiple new growths
Water regularly as plant actively grows; maintain humidity; provide bright indirect light; fertilize every 2-3 weeks with diluted orchid fertilizer (1/4 strength); ensure excellent air circulation
Pre-flowering/Dormancy
2-4 monthsGrowth slows; plant may show signs of rest period with reduced new leaf emergence; flower buds begin developing at pseudobulb bases
Reduce watering slightly; maintain cooler nighttime temperatures (60-65°F) to trigger flowering; reduce nitrogen fertilizer; increase phosphorus and potassium (bloom booster); maintain humidity
Flowering
2-8 weeks (varies by species; some flower multiple times yearly)Unique, often grotesque flowers emerge from pseudobulb bases; flower shapes range from tiny to moderately sized; colors and forms extremely variable by species; some species produce flowers that move when touched
Maintain consistent care; do not move blooming plants; provide bright light to support flower color; water carefully around blooms; avoid overhead watering on flowers; enjoy fragrance (if present) and unique movements
Post-flowering/Recovery
3-6 weeksFlowers fade and fall; plant may rest briefly or continue vegetative growth depending on species and season
Return to regular watering and feeding; remove spent flower spikes; resume normal light and temperature regimes; prepare for next growth cycle
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate infested plants; use systemic insecticide if severe
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Increase humidity dramatically; mist foliage frequently; spray with miticide; ensure excellent air circulation; repeat treatments every 7-10 days
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Remove scales manually with soft brush; treat with horticultural oil; apply systemic insecticide; monitor closely for reinfestation
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Reduce excess moisture; allow media to dry slightly between waterings; use gnat traps; apply beneficial nematodes; treat with insecticide if severe
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Spray with strong water stream; treat with insecticidal soap; use neem oil; apply systemic insecticide for heavy infestations
Uses
Ornamental Display Plants
HouseholdBulbophyllums serve as unique, conversation-starting houseplants and greenhouse specimens. Their exotic, often bizarre flower forms and unusual pollinator-mimicking movements make them prized by orchid enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
CraftSelect long-lasting Bulbophyllum varieties produce stunning cut flowers for tropical and exotic flower arrangements. The unusual flower shapes add dramatic visual interest to floral designs and can last 2-4 weeks in water. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeMany Bulbophyllum species have evolved extraordinary flowers that mimic specific pollinators (primarily flies and small wasps) in shape, scent, and movement to ensure species-specific pollination. Growing these species supports understanding of coevolution and plant-pollinator relationships. [source]
Traditional Medicine Applications
MedicinalSome Bulbophyllum species have been used in traditional Southeast Asian and Pacific Island medicine for various remedies. Research into orchid phytochemistry continues to explore potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds. [source]
Edible Flowers (select species)
CulinaryWhile not widely cultivated for culinary use, certain Bulbophyllum species produce edible flowers occasionally used as exotic garnishes in high-end cuisine. Most are prized for visual appeal rather than flavor. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Bulbophyllums are ornamental orchids grown for flowers rather than harvest. Cut flower spikes when fully open for floral arrangements (some species have long-lasting blooms lasting several weeks). Leave flower spikes on plant if enjoying in-situ pollinator-mimicking movements. Some species' blooms are fragrant and best appreciated in person. For propagation, divide mature plants with at least 3-4 pseudobulbs per division after flowering; allow divisions to establish before disturbing
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Bulbophyllum is the largest genus of orchids with over 2,000 species, yet many remain undiscovered and unstudied in remote tropical rainforests, particularly in Papua New Guinea and Southeast Asia
- 🌱 Some Bulbophyllum species, such as B. phalaenopsis, have hinged lips on their flowers that actually move and bounce when pollinating insects land on them—a mechanical trap mechanism that encourages proper pollination
- 🌱 The genus includes species with the most repulsive odors in the entire plant kingdom, with some specimens smelling like decaying carrion or feces to attract their specific fly pollinators, making them among the most foul-smelling flowers on Earth
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