Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum
Contents
Description
Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum is an epiphytic orchid species that belongs to the Bulbophyllum genus. It is native to New Guinea and can be found growing in elevations of up to 2000 meters above sea level. The plant is known for its small size and attractive flowers that have an unusual shape and coloration.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Bulbophyllum |
Appearance
Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum has small pseudobulbs that are about 1 centimeter in size. The leaves are narrow and elongated, and can grow up to 10 centimeters long. The flowers of the plant are one of its most distinctive features. They grow in clusters of 5-6 and have an unusual shape that resembles a crab’s claw. The flowers are yellow-orange in color with red markings, and can grow up to 3 centimeters in size.
Care Guide
To care for Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum, it is important to provide the plant with the following:Water: The plant should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant should be grown in a well-draining orchid mix that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant should be grown in bright, indirect sunlight.Hardiness Zones: Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum is susceptible to pests such as spider mites and mealybugs. It can also be affected by diseases such as fungal infections and viral infections. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plant clean and well-ventilated, and to avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum is native to New Guinea and can be found growing in elevations of up to 2000 meters above sea level. The plant is an epiphyte, which means that it grows on other plants and trees. It can also be found growing on rocks and in soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering.Q: What kind of soil does Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum need?
A: The plant should be grown in a well-draining orchid mix that is rich in organic matter.Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum?
A: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Bulbophyllum Retusiusculum:
- Bulbophyllum medusae
- Bulbophyllum echinolabium
- Bulbophyllum lobbii
- Bulbophyllum fascinator
References
– Flora Malesiana Orchids of New Guinea Vol 3 by J.J. Wood, P.J. Cribb, K. L. Chan & J. Boggan
