Introducing the Enchanting Medusa's Bulbophyllum (Bulbophyllum medusae)
Discover the allure of the Medusa's Bulbophyllum, a captivating orchid species native to the lush landscapes of Southeast Asia, specifically found in Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo, the Lesser Sunda Islands, and Sumatra. This unique orchid, also known as Cirrhopetalum medusae, draws its name from the Greek mythological figure Gorgon Medusa, inspired by the sinuous, snake-like appearance of its long lateral sepals.
Description: Medusa's Bulbophyllum is an epiphytic orchid boasting stiff, dark green leaves emerging from walnut-sized pseudobulbs. During the fall and early winter, it graces its surroundings with a stunning display of flowers in clusters, each containing 30-100 tiny blossoms. The sepals can reach an impressive length of up to 15 cm, resembling the snakes that formed Medusa's iconic hair. As a creeping orchid, it has the remarkable ability to spread and cover the pot or slab it resides on.
Describing the scent proves challenging! It's neither pleasant nor unpleasant; the aroma isn't overpowering; you need to bring your nose close to perceive it.
Cultivation Tips:
Light: To ensure optimal growth and flowering, Medusa's Bulbophyllum requires a light level of 15000-17000 lux. Aim for a photoperiod of 12-13 hours, and adjust the intensity of lighting to encourage healthy rhizome development.
Temperature: Maintain warm thermal conditions with daytime temperatures between 24-26 °C and nighttime temperatures of 19-21 °C. While it adapts to intermediate-hot conditions, avoid exposing it to temperatures below 16 °C.
Humidity: Humidity preferences vary based on cultivation method. If grown on a raft, maintain 75-80% humidity, while potted specimens thrive at typical indoor levels of 50-60%.
Substrate, Growing Media, and Repotting: Given its climbing nature, Medusa's Bulbophyllum benefits from being mounted on a large piece of cork or placed in a vase with large fiber sphagnum as a substrate. Ensure a luminous position protected from direct sunlight to prevent leaf and flower damage.
Watering: Keep the substrate consistently moist but not wet, watering when it has almost dried. During the warm period, light spraying on the orchid during the day promotes proper hydration and breathing. If grown bare-root, generously spray twice a day, or even thrice on hot summer days.
Fertilizer: Fertilize every 3-4 waterings using a special liquid orchid fertilizer at 1/3 of the recommended dose, supporting healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Rest Period: Medusa's Bulbophyllum does not have a specific rest period. Instead, daily temperature fluctuations of 3-4 °C between day and night stimulate flowering. Supplemental lighting can be employed during this sensitive period to prevent closed and withered flowers caused by insufficient light.
This is a blooming size mounted or potted, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!
Invite the mythical charm of Medusa's Bulbophyllum into your space and witness the magic of its unique blossoms with these expert cultivation tips.
