Bulbophyllum skeatianum is an orchid species known for its unique and captivating appearance. Its miniature size and distinctive flowers make it a desirable addition for orchid enthusiasts.
Understanding Bulbophyllum skeatianum
Bulbophyllum skeatianum is a miniature, cool-growing epiphyte. It features ovoid, maroon to brown pseudobulbs, each with a single, apical leaf. The pseudobulbs are spaced about 0.4 inches (1 cm) apart along its creeping rhizomes.
This orchid is native to Malaysia and Laos, where it grows on ridgetop hill forests and stunted trees in exposed, high-elevation situations, between 1200 and 1750 meters. Its flowers are small, about 5/8 inch (1.5 cm) in size, and typically yellow with purple accents. Like many Bulbophyllum species, its flowers have a hinged column that causes part of the flower to bob, which aids in pollination.
Essential Care for Bulbophyllum skeatianum
Light Needs
Bulbophyllum skeatianum thrives in intermediate to shaded light conditions, preferring bright indirect light. An east or north-facing window is often suitable, providing diffuse light without direct, harsh sun exposure. This species can tolerate lower light, but brighter conditions generally encourage more prolific flowering.
Watering Practices
These orchids prefer consistent moisture but do not tolerate being waterlogged. The potting medium should remain consistently moist, drying slightly between waterings but never completely. Water quality is important; using water low in alkalinity, such as rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water, is beneficial. Mounted plants may require daily watering, while potted plants might need water several times a week, depending on the medium.
Temperature and Humidity
Bulbophyllum skeatianum prefers cool to intermediate growing temperatures. Day temperatures ideally range from 70°F to 80°F (20°C to 27°C), with a night drop to 60°F to 64°F (15°C to 18°C). A consistent drop in night temperature can help stimulate flower bud development and promote robust growth. High humidity (50% or higher) is beneficial, reflecting its native misty highland habitat. Humidity trays or humidifiers can help maintain the necessary moisture in the air.
Potting Media and Repotting
It has a fine root system and can be grown in various media that retain moisture while providing good aeration. Suitable options include sphagnum moss, fine bark mix, or a combination of both. They can be grown in shallow pots, baskets, or mounted on cork or tree fern slabs. Repotting is best timed with the initiation of new growth, typically in spring, or any time the potting medium degrades. When repotting, minimize disturbance to the roots and avoid burying the pseudobulbs, as they should “hover” just above the media surface.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization supports active growth. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 or 10-10-10 formulation, applied at a quarter to half strength, is appropriate. During active growth periods, fertilize regularly, perhaps every other watering if using sphagnum moss or with every watering if using bark. Flushing the media periodically with plain water helps prevent the buildup of salts and minerals.
Flowering and Propagation
It typically blooms in late summer. The inflorescence, up to 4 inches (10 cm) long, emerges from the base of the pseudobulb and bears an umbel of several flowers. Flowers are yellow, often with purple accents, and can also appear orange.
Propagation is primarily achieved through division. This involves carefully separating the pseudobulbs, ensuring each division has at least one or two pseudobulbs and healthy roots. Repotting or mounting these divisions should coincide with new growth to allow for quick establishment.
Addressing Common Challenges
Good air circulation is important to prevent fungal issues, especially in high humidity. Leaf spotting can arise from stagnant air or overly damp conditions. If fungal spots appear, improving air movement and reducing humidity temporarily can help.
Common orchid pests, such as mealybugs, can affect the plant, often hiding on the undersides of leaves. A solution of rubbing alcohol and water with a few drops of dish soap can treat infestations. Root rot is another concern, often caused by the potting medium remaining too wet, highlighting the importance of proper watering and well-draining media.