Bulbophyllum phalaenopsis
Bulbophyllum phalaenopsis
Phalaenopsis-leaved Bulbophyllum
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Taxonomy
Family Orchidaceae · Genus Bulbophyllum
Description
Bulbophyllum phalaenopsis is a spectacular New Guinea orchid famed for its huge, drooping leaves and bizarre, hairy, maroon blooms that smell like carrion to attract flies. It thrives in warm, very humid, shady conditions—best for experienced growers with good airflow.
Common Names
Phalaenopsis-leaved BulbophyllumStinking BulbophyllumFly-pollinated Bulbophyllum
Context
nativeRegion
Lowland rainforests of New Guinea (Papua New Guinea and surrounding areas).
usdaZones
12–13 outdoors; otherwise grow indoors or in a controlled greenhouse.
companionPlants
Phalaenopsis species, Bulbophyllum medusae, Anthurium crystallinum, Staghorn fern (Platycerium), Aerangis species
culturalUses
Highly prized collector’s orchid and educational showpiece in botanical collections for its extreme foliage and fly-pollinated, malodorous blooms.
Care
Care Requirements
LightLow to medium, bright shade or filtered light; avoid direct sun (similar to or slightly shadier than Phalaenopsis).
WateringKeep evenly moist year-round; never bone-dry. Water frequently with excellent drainage and strong airflow. Let media approach slight dryness only.
SoilAiry epiphyte setup: basket or mount with sphagnum over cork/fern fiber, or very chunky orchid mix (bark + sphagnum + charcoal/perlite).
FertilizerWeakly, weekly at 1/4–1/2 strength during active growth; flush monthly. Reduce slightly in cooler, darker months.
HumidityVery high (70–90%) with continuous, gentle air movement to prevent rot and pests.
TemperatureWarm to hot: 70–85°F (21–29°C) days, 65–75°F (18–24°C) nights; tolerate higher heat if humidity and airflow are high; avoid <60°F (16°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEpiphytic, sympodial orchid with creeping rhizome; each pseudobulb bears a single very large, pendent leaf; dangling inflorescences with hairy, maroon flowers.
Mature SizeLeaves typically 12–24 in (30–60 cm) long; plant spread 12–36 in (30–90 cm); inflorescences to ~12–16 in (30–40 cm).
Growth RateModerate in warm, humid, stable conditions; slows if cool or too dry.
BloomingIntermittent, often in warm months; foul (carrion-like) fragrance attracts flies for pollination.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slight winter slowdown—keep warm, moist, and bright-shaded.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of rhizome with 3+ mature pseudobulbs, Backbulb division, Seed via sterile flasking (advanced)
DifficultyModerate to advanced—humidity and rot management are critical.
Best SeasonSpring, as new roots emerge.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove spent inflorescences and dead roots/leaves with sterile tools; do not cut living pseudobulbs or rhizomes.
RepottingEvery 1–2 years or when media breaks down; best at onset of new root growth (spring). Prefer baskets/mounts if humidity is adequate.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites (low humidity), scale, mealybugs, snails/slugs; risk of bacterial and fungal rot without airflow. Maintain sanitation and airflow.
ToxicityOrchids are generally non-toxic to pets; blooms have a strong, unpleasant odor—place accordingly.
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