Bulbophyllum orchids

Bulbophyllum is one of the largest orchid genera, with over two thousand species spread through the tropics of both the Old and New Worlds. Growth forms vary enormously: tight clumps of pseudobulbs, long rambling rhizomes, miniatures smaller than a fingernail, and plants that cover a dinner plate. Flowers are equally diverse, from tiny dull-coloured blooms to spectacular large patterned flowers with movable lips that rock in the breeze to attract fly pollinators.

The genus is a favourite of collectors who enjoy the unusual. Many species are fragrant — not always pleasantly, with some smelling of rotting meat to attract flies — and many have movable parts that are mesmerising to watch in motion.

General care for the genus (species, hybrids and cultivars vary, so check with the grower for a specific plant): varies widely by species. Most warm-growing types want high humidity (70 to 85 percent), intermediate to warm temperatures, bright indirect light, and frequent watering. Mounts, baskets, or shallow pots with sphagnum or fine bark suit the creeping rhizome habit.

Famous plants include the hybrid Bulbophyllum Elizabeth Ann 'Buckleberry' (one of the most recognised cultivars in the genus) and the species Bulbophyllum medusae, Bulbophyllum echinolabium, and Bulbophyllum rothschildianum. Listings below come from the nurseries we index, most of them re-checked nightly; prices are shown in USD.