365 days of orchids – day 39 – Bulbophyllum rothschildianum
This is possibly the most dramatic of our Bulbophyllum species with its large red flowers and strong fishy smell. The species is found in the Eastern Himalayan region of Southern China, North East India and Burma. I have been to the warm lowland forests of Arunachal Pradesh where the species is found. These forests have a very wet summer when growth occurs but a much dryer winter which is the flowering time. We find the species does well in both baskets or pots but appreciated good drainage and watering regularly even in winter so that the bulbs do not shrivel.
The scent indicated that the species is fly pollinated although I am not aware that anyone has filmed this in the wild habitat – that sounds like a fun challenge!
Where can I get one? They are so beautiful and smells good!
We hope to have one for sale at the London Orchid show next year.