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Description
Bulbophyllum Vaginatum is a species of orchid that originates from the Philippines. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae and is one of the over 2000 species in the Bulbophyllum genus. The plant has a unique appearance, with small flowers arranged in clusters that grow on a long, thin stem. The flowers have a peculiar smell, which is often compared to that of rotten meat, and are pollinated by flies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Bulbophyllum |
| Species: | Bulbophyllum Vaginatum |
Appearance
Bulbophyllum Vaginatum is a small orchid that typically grows to be around 5-10cm tall. It has thin, elongated leaves that grow from a pseudobulb. The flowers grow in clusters of up to 20 on a long, thin stem that can be up to 40cm long. The flowers are small, typically around 1cm in diameter, and are yellow-green in color with red-brown spots. The flowers have a unique smell that is often described as being similar to that of rotten meat.
Care Guide
Bulbophyllum Vaginatum is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater it. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is not frost-tolerant and should be grown indoors in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bulbophyllum Vaginatum is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves and flowers of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: These pests can cause damage to the leaves and flowers of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Crown Rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Affected plants should be treated with a fungicide, and care should be taken to improve drainage.
Habitat
Bulbophyllum Vaginatum is native to the Philippines, where it can be found growing in lowland forests at elevations of up to 500m above sea level. The plant prefers warm, humid conditions and grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bulbophyllum Vaginatum an easy plant to care for?
A: Yes, Bulbophyllum Vaginatum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for.
Q: Does Bulbophyllum Vaginatum have any pests or diseases to watch out for?
A: Yes, Bulbophyllum Vaginatum can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and crown rot.
Q: What kind of soil is best for Bulbophyllum Vaginatum?
A: Bulbophyllum Vaginatum prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Where is Bulbophyllum Vaginatum native to?
A: Bulbophyllum Vaginatum is native to the Philippines.
Related Plants
- Bulbophyllum macraei
- Bulbophyllum lobbii
- Bulbophyllum putidum
References
- “Bulbophyllum vaginatum (Blume) Rchb. f.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 15 June 2021.
- “Bulbophyllum vaginatum.” Orchids Wiki. Accessed 15 June 2021.
- “Bulbophyllum vaginatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 June 2021.
