About
Bulbophyllum picturatum is a compact epiphytic orchid that thrives in a range of temperatures, from warm to cool. This species features a characteristic rhizomatous growth habit. Each pseudobulb functions as a reservoir for water and nutrients, supporting a single leathery leaf that measures about 1 cm in length. Flower spikes emerge from the bases of mature pseudobulbs, producing clusters of 5 to 10 distinctive flowers arranged in tight umbels. Each flower reaches around 5 cm in length, showcasing two laterally fused sepals that extend downward for most of their length. The dorsal sepal is relatively short, forming a cap over the flower's center, which is adorned with intricate small petals, a yellow column, and a dark red lip.
About the genus
This genus encompasses a broad range of primarily epiphytic, sympodial tropical orchids. These plants form clusters of small pseudobulbs that function as reservoirs for water and nutrients. Typically, each pseudobulb supports a single leaf. There are more than 2,000 recognized species within this group.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1A
Plant details
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- Up to 10 cm
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Native to
- India to China & SE Asia
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in an open, free-draining, bark-based orchid compost with addition of perlite and sphagnum moss. Due to plants' spreading growth habit, they are best acommodated in wide, shallow pots or baskets. Provide enough filtered light, but keep away from direct sunlight or a heating source. Plants require high humidity and frequent watering. Ensure that all water drains away, preventing the plant sitting wet. Orchid fertiliser can be applied regularly throughout the growing season. Reduce watering and feeding in winter months. Ideal temperatures are around minimum 14°C at night and up to maximum 30 °C during day. For best flowering, amplitudes of temperatures between daytime and night should be at least 8 -10 °C, even more in summer months.
- Pruning
- No pruning required. Remove spent flower stem at the base.
- Propagation
- Propagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants may be divided when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3 older pseudobulbs with a suffient amount of stored energy and water, to support new growth and reduce stress after repotting.
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects infestations.
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free.