Overview
Bulbophyllum rufinum is a clump-forming orchid in the genus Bulbophyllum, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Bulbophyllum rufinum 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 rufinum is a clump-forming orchid cultivar within the Bulbophyllum genus, known for its primarily epiphytic tropical species that produce clusters of small pseudobulbs each bearing a single leaf. This evergreen plant thrives in bright, indirect light and is suited to indoor cultivation under sheltered, south-facing conditions. It prefers specialist orchid compost with a neutral pH, moderate moisture, and loam soil. Hardy to UK zone H1a, it is best grown in spring and summer and can be propagated by division or seed.
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 rufinum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Orchid
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Indoor cultivation
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Bulbophyllum rufinum
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Moderate
- Disease resistance
- Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Bulbophyllum rufinum?
Bulbophyllum rufinum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Bulbophyllum rufinum need?
Bulbophyllum rufinum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
Is Bulbophyllum rufinum hardy in the UK?
Bulbophyllum rufinum 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 rufinum?
Division, seed.
