365 days of orchids – day 386 – Bulbophyllum picturatum
This dramatic species is native to lowland forest in Thailand and Myanmar where it grows as an epiphyte in evergreen trees. The intricate flowers are produces in a terminal semicircular circular umbel like group. This habit is common in a large group of Bulbophyllums once called cirrhopetalums. The large creamy yellow tube at the bottom of the flower is formed from the lateral sepals.
The flowers are fragrant and have a fishy smell which is not unpleasant.
The plant we have in flower is still small and we find basket culture is ideal as the plant can grow out of, and around the basket as it matures.
We grow the species in shade in our Warm Asia section to replicate its natural environment.
Discussion