Bulbophyllum comosum
Bulbophyllum comosum
Tufted Bulbophyllum
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Taxonomy
Family Orchidaceae · Genus Bulbophyllum
Description
Bulbophyllum comosum is a compact, tufted epiphytic orchid prized by collectors for its quirky, clustered blooms and easy-to-mount habit. It loves warm, humid, shady spots with steady moisture and airflow, making it perfect for cork or tree-fern mounts and snug orchid baskets.
Common Names
Tufted BulbophyllumBulbo comosum
Context
nativeRegion
Southeast Asia, especially Peninsular Malaysia to Sumatra and Borneo (lowland to hill forests).
usdaZones
10–12 (outdoors); commonly grown indoors or in greenhouses elsewhere.
companionPlants
Phalaenopsis species and hybrids, Warm-growing Dendrobium (Phalaenopsis-type), Tillandsia (air plants), Platycerium (staghorn fern), Aerangis species
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental; valued by orchid enthusiasts for mounting displays, vivarium/terrarium culture, and show benches.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light or dappled shade; avoid direct midday sun (orchid shade).
WateringKeep evenly moist; never soggy. Water frequently if mounted (3–5x/week in heat), less in cool seasons; use rain/RO water if possible.
SoilOpen, fast-draining epiphytic mix: fine orchid bark with sphagnum, perlite, and charcoal; or mount on cork/tree-fern with a moss pad.
Fertilizer“Weakly, weekly”: 1/4–1/2 strength balanced orchid fertilizer during active growth; flush salts monthly; occasional bloom booster is fine.
HumidityHigh humidity 60–80% with good airflow to prevent rot.
TemperatureWarm–intermediate: 65–85°F (18–29°C) days, 55–65°F (13–18°C) nights; avoid prolonged temps below 55°F or above 90°F without extra humidity.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEpiphytic, sympodial orchid with creeping rhizome and small clustered pseudobulbs, each bearing a single leaf; flowers on short, tufted inflorescences.
Mature SizeClump spread 6–12 in (15–30 cm) over time; individual pseudobulbs ~0.5–1 in (1–2.5 cm).
Growth RateModerate under warm, humid conditions with steady moisture and airflow.
BloomingOften spring to summer, with small, tufted clusters; may bloom intermittently when conditions are stable.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slight winter slowdown—reduce watering and fertilizer but do not allow to fully dry.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of rhizome with 3–4 healthy pseudobulbs, Backbulb propagation, Seed (sterile flasking in lab)
DifficultyModerate for division; difficult from seed without lab facilities.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer, at the start of new root growth.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove spent inflorescences, dried sheaths, and dead roots; avoid cutting green pseudobulbs or rhizomes.
RepottingEvery 1–2 years or when mix breaks down; best just as new roots emerge. Mounted plants can go longer—refresh moss as needed.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for scale, mealybugs, spider mites, and slugs; prevent bacterial/fungal rot with high airflow and fast drainage.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to people and pets; ingestion not advised; sap may irritate sensitive skin.
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