Overview
Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is commonly known as the “Starfish Orchid” because of its unique shape and appearance. This plant is native to tropical Africa, including Congo, Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
Appearance
The Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. grows as a small to medium-sized epiphyte, reaching a height of up to 8 inches (20 cm). It has a thin, creeping rhizome that produces long, slender pseudobulbs that bear a single leaf. The leaf is usually oblong or elliptical in shape, with a pointed tip and a length of up to 4 inches (10 cm).
The flowers of the Starfish Orchid are one of the most unique features of the plant. The floral bracts are deep maroon and resemble the shape of starfish. Each bract bears a single flower that is yellow-green or brown, with darker spots and a curled-back petal that resembles a hook. The flowers bloom in the summer and early fall, and each bloom lasts for several weeks.
Uses
While the Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. is not typically used for medicinal purposes, it has some traditional uses in African cultures. The plant is used as a charm or talisman, and it is believed to bring good luck and fortune to those who keep it in their home.
The Starfish Orchid is also used in the horticulture industry, where it is prized for its unique appearance and ease of care. It is often grown indoors as a houseplant, and it requires moderate humidity and bright, indirect light to thrive. This plant is well-suited to a range of growing conditions, making it a versatile addition to any collection of tropical plants.
Light Requirements
Bulbophyllum bequaertii requires moderate levels of light to grow well. It thrives in bright, indirect light or partial shade. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant and cause leaf burn.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Bulbophyllum bequaertii is between 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F). It is important to avoid sudden changes in temperature, as this can stress the plant. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) but should not be exposed to freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Bulbophyllum bequaertii grows well in a well-draining mix that contains materials such as bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The mix should provide good aeration and drainage while retaining some moisture.
Cultivation Methods for Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct.
Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. is an epiphytic orchid species that requires a specific set of cultivation methods for optimal growth. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Provide appropriate growing media: Use a well-draining mixture of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite as a growing media. The mixture should be able to hold moisture without becoming waterlogged.
- Choose a suitable pot: Use a pot with sufficient drainage holes for optimal drainage.
- Optimize temperature conditions: Provide a warm and humid environment; the optimal temperature range for Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. is between 18°C to 30°C.
- Provide proper lighting: Ensure enough exposure to bright, indirect light.
- Do not disturb the roots often: Keep the roots undisturbed for the majority of the plant's life cycle.
Watering Needs for Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct.
The watering process for Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. is a crucial aspect of its care. Follow these watering guidelines:
- Do not let the media dry out completely, but do not overwater the plant.
- Water the plant when the medium feels dry to the touch. The frequency of watering will depend on the surrounding temperature and humidity levels.
- Ensure that excess water drains properly and does not accumulate in the pot.
- Avoid watering the plant from overhead to prevent the accumulation of water in the growing media.
Fertilization for Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct.
Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. requires regular fertilization to maintain optimal growth. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer regularly during the growing season, usually from spring to autumn.
- Dilute the fertilizer to half or quarter strength when applying it to avoid damaging the roots.
- Do not fertilize during the rest period in winter.
- Avoid using fertilizers with a high nitrogen content, which can promote foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning for Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct.
Pruning Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. is not necessary in most cases, but these guidelines may be useful:
- Remove dead or yellowing leaves to prevent the spread of disease.
- Remove spent flowers from the plant to encourage new blooms.
- Divide overcrowded plants every two to three years, repotting the divided sections in fresh growing media.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct.
Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. can be propagated through division, keiki production, and seed germination.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. and is usually done during repotting. This is because the plant produces pseudobulbs, which can be separated and potted individually. To ensure successful division, one must carefully cut the rhizome with a sterilized sharp blade, ensuring that each division has at least one healthy pseudobulb with active roots. After division, the newly separated pseudobulbs should be potted individually in well-draining soil mix and kept in a humid environment until it establishes itself.
Keiki Production
Keiki production is the process of producing a new plant from the vegetative buds of the parent plant. This happens naturally in some orchids, including Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. when the plant produces plantlets or small babies along its stem. To propagate through keiki production, one can cut the plantlet from the parent plant with a sharp and sterilized blade and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. The baby plant should be watered regularly and kept in a humid environment until its root system is established.
Seed Germination
Seed germination is a less common method of propagating Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. Still, it may be a viable option for those who do not want to divide their plants or do not have access to keiki. The seeds of the Bulbophyllum bequaertii auct. are very tiny and should be sown as soon as possible to prevent them from drying out or becoming contaminated. For successful seed germination, the seeds should be sown onto a moist substrate in a sterile environment and kept in a warm and humid place until germination.
Disease management
Bulbophyllum bequaertii is generally a healthy plant. However, it is susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases. One of the most common diseases is leaf spot, which is caused by the fungus Cercospora orchidicola.
To manage leaf spot, you should remove the infected leaves and avoid getting water on the leaves while watering the plant. You can also use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Bulbophyllum bequaertii can also suffer from bacterial rots such as soft rot and black rot. These rots occur when the plant is overwatered or the humidity levels are too high.
To manage bacterial rots, avoid overwatering the plant and make sure there is proper ventilation in the growing area. You can also use a copper fungicide to manage bacterial rots.
Pest management
Bulbophyllum bequaertii is also susceptible to pest infestations. The most common pests are mealybugs, scale insects and spider mites.
Mealybugs and scale insects can be removed manually by wiping them off the plant with rubbing alcohol or a cotton swab dipped in soapy water.
You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage these pests. However, take care not to apply these treatments during the heat of the day or when the plant is in direct sunlight.
Spider mites can be managed by increasing the humidity levels around the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent the spread of spider mites.
It is important to monitor your plant regularly for signs of disease or pest infestations and take prompt action if necessary. With proper care and attention, your Bulbophyllum bequaertii can thrive and produce beautiful blooms.
