Bulbophyllum lepidum — a hard houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Bulbophyllum lepidum

Bulbophyllum Lepidum

Updated · 7 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Bulbophyllum lepidum, is a species of orchid, in the subfamily Epidendroideae and the genus Bulbophyllum, with the common name: Venus' fan bulbophyllum.

A note from PlantMom

Bulbophyllum lepidum is generally resistant to diseases and is affected by relatively few insect pests. Its care is considered difficult because it needs a high-humidity yet well-ventilated environment with minimal harmful pathogens. Too much watering can cause root rot. Growing Bulbophyllum lepidum is suitable for anyone, but keeping it healthy and getting it to bloom again requires more cultivation experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Bulbophyllum Lepidum.

Light

Bulbophyllum lepidum occurs naturally in settings like forest understories or on rocky terrain, where it grows in natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or complete shade, showing that it is adaptable and hardy.

Temperature

Bulbophyllum lepidum does well in warm conditions. It prefers moderately high temperatures rather than very hot, humid ones. Sunlight warms the plant and encourages flowering. However, extended direct sun in summer can cause sunburn, so the amount of sunlight it gets during that season should be limited. The plant generally does not tolerate cold well, so it needs sufficient protection and warmer conditions in winter to avoid freezing.

Fertilizer

Proper fertilization is essential for the health and appearance of Bulbophyllum lepidum. Fertilize Bulbophyllum lepidum during summer, applying it monthly throughout that season. Nutrients provide the energy for growth and help maintain the plant’s parts. Regular feeding improves Bulbophyllum lepidum’s flower display, ensuring the best blooms.

Pot & Repot

When repotting Bulbophyllum lepidum, pick a pot slightly larger than the current one that has good drainage, ideally a clear (transparent) orchid pot. Use an orchid-specific, well-draining potting medium that includes bark or moss. Carefully clean the roots and cut away any that are dead or rotting. Repot following flowering, typically in spring or autumn, water thoroughly afterward, and keep the plant in bright, indirect light. Do not disturb the roots once it has been repotted.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Bulbophyllum
Family
Orchidaceae
Hardiness Zone
6
Mature Height
15 cm
Mature Spread
15 cm to 20 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Pink, Brown
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Fall, Early winter
Native Area
India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Laos, Thailand, China
PLATES
Bulbophyllum lepidum leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Bulbophyllum lepidum habit
PLATE 02 · habit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

You might also like.