Overview
Bulbophyllum hirtum is a clump-forming orchid in the genus Bulbophyllum, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Bulbophyllum hirtum grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include indoor cultivation.
About
Bulbophyllum hirtum is a clump-forming orchid cultivar within the diverse Bulbophyllum genus, known for its primarily epiphytic tropical species that form clusters of small pseudobulbs, each typically supporting a single evergreen leaf. This cultivar thrives in bright indirect light and requires orchid bark as a growing medium, reflecting its preference for moderate moisture and neutral pH conditions. Suitable for indoor cultivation in the UK, it benefits from a sheltered, south-facing aspect and is hardy to H1a. Bulbophyllum hirtum displays interest throughout the year, including spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
About the genus
Bulbophyllum is a genus of mostly epiphytic and lithophytic orchids in the family Orchidaceae. It is the largest genus in the orchid family and one of the largest genera of flowering plants with more than 2,000 species, exceeded in number only by Astragalus. These orchids are found in diverse habitats throughout most of the warmer parts of the world including Africa, southern Asia, Latin America, the West Indies, and various islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Wikipedia contributors, "Bulbophyllum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Bulbophyllum
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Bulbophyllum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moderate
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Bulbophyllum hirtum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Orchid
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Indoor cultivation
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Bulbophyllum hirtum
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Moderate
- Disease resistance
- Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Bulbophyllum hirtum?
Bulbophyllum hirtum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Bulbophyllum hirtum need?
Bulbophyllum hirtum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
Is Bulbophyllum hirtum hardy in the UK?
Bulbophyllum hirtum has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Bulbophyllum hirtum?
Division, seed.
