Orchid 'Bulbophyllum echinolabium' 'Starter'

Bulbophyllum echinolabium is a medium sized orchid species. Every 4 cm tall, droplet-shaped pseudobulb carries a single leaf. Leaves of this species are somewhat curved inside and are relatively sturdy. The pseudobulbs of this sympodial orchid are close together. From the base of a pseudobulb, a flower stalk of around 70 cm could be produced carrying a single flower. The flower is elongated, star-shaped and has a notable dark colored labellum. The color of the rest of the glossy flower is a faint yellow with a red-brown striped pattern. This species carries the title producer of the biggest flower within the Bulbophyllinae subfamily with a maximum flower length of 40 cm. The main pollinators of this species are flies. This is the probable reason that the flowers of this species produce a foul odor. Bulbophyllum echinolabium flowers most frequently in spring and summer. Division is the most common way of propagation for this species. Make sure that every division has at least three mature pseudobulbs.

Bulbophyllum echinolabium originates from the damp tropical forest from Borneo and Sulawesi. This plant grows as an epiphyte on the branches of riparian trees. It grows at altitudes between 600 and 1200 meters. A warm and humid environment is most optimal for this species to grow; warm living rooms, large terraria and warm greenhouses are best. Make sure that relative humidity does not drop below 70% and temperature is always above 16 degrees Celsius. Use with this orchid a fast draining and loose growing medium consisting of orchid bark and sphagnum moss, for example. Make sure that the medium never dries out so try to water frequently. Furthermore, allow for excellent ventilation. Direct morning light or bright indirect light is sufficient for this species. Provide specialized orchid fertilization, 1/2 to 1/4 the recommended strength from the end of winter to the beginning of autumn.