Source: Wikimedia Commons
Bulbophyllum
IntermediateThe largest orchid genus with 2000+ species, popular among enthusiasts for bizarre flower shapes.
About
Bulbophyllum is a genus of mostly epiphytic and lithophytic orchids in the family Orchidaceae. It is the largest genus in the orchid family and one of the largest genera of flowering plants with more than 2,000 species, exceeded in number only by Astragalus. These orchids are found in diverse habitats throughout most of the warmer parts of the world including Africa, southern Asia, Latin America, the West Indies, and various islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Orchids in this genus have thread-like or fibrous roots that creep over the surface of trees or rocks or hang from branches. The stem is divided into a rhizome and a pseudobulb, a feature that distinguished this genus from Dendrobium. There is usually only a single leaf at the top of the pseudobulb and from one to many flowers are arranged along an unbranched flowering stem that arises from the base of the pseudobulb. Several attempts have been made to separate Bulbophyllum into smaller genera, but most have not been accepted by the World Checklist of Selected Plant Families.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Bulbophyllum
The Bulbophyllum lives 10+ years.
Size of the Bulbophyllum
The Bulbophyllum grows to 5-30cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Bulbophyllum
The ideal temperature for the Bulbophyllum is 18〜30℃.
Basic Info
Origin
diverse habitats throughout the tropics, including Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Pacific islands
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
5-30cm
Temperature
18〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Place it in bright partial shade. Avoid strong direct sun and keep it in a well-ventilated spot.
Watering
Take care not to let it dry out too much and keep humidity high. Mounted plants dry quickly, so mist and water them frequently.
Temperature & Overwintering
Most species like heat and humidity, with an ideal range of 18-30°C. Keep it in a warm room over winter.
Soil & Repotting
Grow it in bark or mounted on a cork slab. The rhizome creeps sideways, so use a shallow, wide pot or a mount.
Fertilizer
Feed sparingly with diluted liquid fertilizer. Strong fertilizer damages the roots, so apply it weak along with watering.
Bulbophyllum FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Bulbophyllum?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Bulbophyllum?
The ideal temperature for Bulbophyllum is 18〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Bulbophyllum?
The average lifespan of Bulbophyllum is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Bulbophyllum get?
The mature size of Bulbophyllum is 5-30cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Bulbophyllum?
The price of Bulbophyllum varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Thouars
Synonyms: Spilorchis, Bolbophyllopsis, Hyalosema, Dactylorhynchus, Hapalochilus, Carparomorchis, Vesicisepalum, Fruticicola
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · RHS orchid hybrid registration (International Orchid Register) · AOS (American Orchid Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
The family Orchidaceae is listed entirely in CITES Appendix II (except for the genera Paphiopedilum and Phragmipedium and certain species, which are in Appendix I). Cultivars and hybrids are subject to family-level regulation; however, artificially propagated specimens may benefit from simplified trading procedures under the Appendices.
Sources: CITES Appendices (Orchidaceae spp. = Appendix II) / CITES Appendix I Orchid Checklist (Kew/UNEP-WCMC 2019)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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