Bulbophyllum medusae
Bulbophyllum medusae
Medusa Orchid
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Taxonomy
Family Orchidaceae · Genus Bulbophyllum
Description
Bulbophyllum medusae wows with spectacular pom‑pom clusters of long, hair‑like petals that resemble Medusa’s locks. This warm, humid‑loving epiphyte is surprisingly vigorous when kept evenly moist with good airflow, rewarding growers with unforgettable, fragrant displays.
Common Names
Medusa OrchidMedusa’s Head BulbophyllumMedusa Bulbophyllum
Context
nativeRegion
Lowland to hill rainforests of Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo.
usdaZones
11–12 (grow indoors or in greenhouse elsewhere)
companionPlants
Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium (warm-growing types), Platycerium (staghorn fern), Asplenium nidus (bird’s nest fern), Other Bulbophyllum species
culturalUses
Highly prized ornamental for orchid collections and shows; a conversation centerpiece for warm, humid displays.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright shade to medium indirect light (about 800–2000 foot-candles); avoid harsh midday sun.
WateringKeep evenly moist; never bone dry. Water frequently in warm months and for mounts; ensure strong drainage and airflow.
SoilOpen, airy orchid mix such as long-fiber sphagnum or fine bark with perlite/charcoal; baskets or mounts suit it well.
FertilizerBalanced orchid feed at 1/4–1/2 strength, ‘weakly, weekly’; flush with plain water monthly to prevent salt buildup.
HumidityHigh humidity 60–90% with good air movement to prevent rot.
TemperatureIntermediate-warm: days 75–85°F (24–29°C), nights 60–70°F (16–21°C); avoid drops below ~55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEpiphytic orchid with creeping rhizomes, small pseudobulbs, and pendulous, many-flowered umbels.
Mature SizeLeaves 6–10 in (15–25 cm); inflorescences 8–16 in (20–40 cm) with flower heads to ~6–10 in (15–25 cm) across.
Growth RateModerate to fast under warm, humid, well-fed conditions.
BloomingOften summer to fall; can bloom multiple times yearly in ideal culture.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slight winter slowdown—reduce water marginally but do not let dry out.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of rhizome with 3–5+ connected pseudobulbs, Backbulb division (if viable eyes are present), Seed (sterile flasking in lab conditions)
DifficultyModerate for division; seed is advanced/technical.
Best SeasonSpring, at the onset of new growth and root activity.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove spent inflorescences and dead sheaths; avoid heavy division—wait for clumps of 6+ pseudobulbs.
RepottingEvery 1–2 years or when media breaks down; best in spring as new roots emerge. Consider baskets/mounts for airflow.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and snails/slugs. Susceptible to rot if media stays soggy or airflow is poor.
ToxicityGenerally non-toxic to pets and people.
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