Bulbophyllum macranthum

The Bulbophyllum macranthum is an enchanting and exotic orchid variety that will grace your garden or indoor collection with its unique beauty and surprising fragrance. Unlike many other Bulbophyllum species that are notorious for their fishy or rotting meat-like scent, this orchid offers a delightful twist by emitting a fragrance reminiscent of tropical fruits with a subtle spicy edge. If you're seeking an orchid that's both visually stunning and pleasantly fragrant, the Bulbophyllum macranthum is the perfect choice.

Plant Characteristics:

• Rhizome: In the world of orchids, the term "rhizome" refers to the combined stem segments found at the base of the shoots. For this orchid variety, the rhizome is typically 3-6 mm in diameter, with sections between pseudobulbs measuring 4-12 cm in length. The rhizome is creeping and rooting, providing the plant with stability and nourishment.

• Pseudobulbs: The ovoid pseudobulbs of the Bulbophyllum macranthum measure 1-4 cm in length and 0.7-1.5 cm in width. These pseudobulbs store essential nutrients and water, allowing the plant to thrive in various conditions.

• Leaves: The leaves of this orchid are elliptic to obovate in shape, measuring 11-28 cm in length and 2.5-6.6 cm in width. Their unique index (length/width) ranges from 2.8 to 6.4, with rounded to obtuse tips.

Flowers:

• Sepals and Petals: The sepals and petals of the Bulbophyllum macranthum are cream-colored, adorned with red spots. The median sepal is elliptic to ovate, measuring 16-33 mm by 6-12 mm, while the lateral sepals are ovate to triangular, measuring 15-32 mm by 6-12 mm. These lateral sepals almost touch at the tip, creating an intriguing visual effect.

• Lip: The lip of this orchid is strikingly recurved, with a triangular shape and a drawn-out, narrowly linguiform top part. It measures 4-8 mm by 2.5-5 mm and features two distinct ridges on the adaxial side and a retuse ridge on the abaxial side. The lip is thick and rounded to subacute.

• Column: The column is 3-6 mm long and appears straight in profile. It lacks teeth at the base, providing a clean and elegant appearance. The column foot is devoid of ridges.

• Stelidia: The stelidia are porrect and triangular, measuring 0.8-2 mm in length. They have a rounded to subacute shape, with a deltoid, rounded wing on the lower margin in the proximal half of the column.

Fragrance: One of the most intriguing aspects of the Bulbophyllum macranthum is its fragrance. Unlike its pungent relatives, this orchid surprises with a strong, sweet, or spicy scent that evokes tropical fruits. It's a delightful and inviting fragrance that will captivate your senses.

Habitat and Distribution:

• Habitat: This orchid is an epiphyte, meaning it naturally grows on other plants or objects, often in lowland forests. It thrives at altitudes ranging from 60 to 1150 meters.

• Distribution: The Bulbophyllum macranthum is found in various regions across Malesia, including Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Sulawesi, Moluccas, New Guinea, and the Philippines. It can also be spotted in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Burma, and the Solomon Islands.

• Distribution in New Guinea: Within New Guinea, this orchid variety is found in Papua (Indonesia) and Papua New Guinea.

Cultivation Tips: To successfully cultivate the Bulbophyllum macranthum, consider the following tips:

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light, mimicking the orchid's natural habitat under the forest canopy.

• Temperature: Maintain a temperature range of 60-80°F (15-27°C) during the day and a slightly cooler range at night.

• Humidity: High humidity levels, around 60-80%, are ideal for this orchid.

• Watering: Keep the growing medium consistently moist but not soggy. Watering frequency may vary depending on environmental conditions.

• Potting Medium: Use a well-draining orchid mix that allows for good airflow around the roots.

• Fertilization: Feed with a balanced orchid fertilizer at half-strength every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.

• Repotting: Repot when the growing medium begins to break down, typically every 2-3 years.

This is a blooming size in a 4" pot, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!

The Bulbophyllum macranthum is a stunning orchid variety that combines unique visual appeal with a surprising and delightful fragrance. Whether you're an orchid enthusiast or a beginner, this orchid is sure to be a fascinating addition to your collection. Enjoy the beauty and fragrance of this tropical treasure in your own home or garden.