Overview
Bulbophyllum patens is a clump-forming orchid in the genus Bulbophyllum, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Bulbophyllum patens 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 patens is a clump-forming orchid cultivar within the large genus Bulbophyllum, known for its primarily epiphytic tropical species. This evergreen plant produces clusters of small pseudobulbs, each typically bearing a single leaf, which serve as reservoirs for water and nutrients. It thrives in bright, indirect light and is best grown indoors in specialist orchid compost with moderate moisture and neutral, loamy soil. Suitable for a south-facing, sheltered spot, it is hardy to H1a and shows interest during spring and summer.
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 patens size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Orchid
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Indoor cultivation
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Bulbophyllum patens
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Moderate
- Disease resistance
- Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Bulbophyllum patens?
Bulbophyllum patens prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Bulbophyllum patens need?
Bulbophyllum patens grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
Is Bulbophyllum patens hardy in the UK?
Bulbophyllum patens 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 patens?
Division, seed.
