Origin
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum (Kraenzl.) De Wild. belongs to the Orchidaceae family and is native to Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Gabon, and Nigeria.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as Buchenau's Bulbophyllum or Buchenau's Dainty Bulbophyllum.
Appearance
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum is a small epiphytic orchid with pseudobulbs that are 3-4mm small. The leaves are 5-6cm long and are oblong in shape. The flowers bloom from the base of the plant on a long spike and have a diameter of 8mm. The flowers are yellow-green with small hairs and have a slightly unpleasant odor. The plant blooms during the summer and autumn months.
Uses
Although Bulbophyllum buchenauianum is not widely used, it is sometimes grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance.
Light Requirements
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum plants prefer filtered to partial sun exposure. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn or wither, while inadequate light can affect the plant's growth and flower development.
Temperature Requirements
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum plants thrive in warm to hot temperatures, with the ideal range being between 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. The plant should not be exposed to temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius for an extended period as this can result in stunted growth or even plant death.
Soil Requirements
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum plants prefer a well-draining soil mixture rich in organic matter for optimal growth. The soil should be able to hold some moisture while still allowing excess water to drain out, preventing waterlogging. The recommended soil mix includes medium-grade fir bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite in equal parts.
Cultivation Methods for Bulbophyllum buchenauianum
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum is a tropical epiphyte plant that needs specific growing conditions to thrive. Firstly, it requires good air circulation, which is why it is mostly grown in baskets. Secondly, it needs to be planted in an orchid mix that provides excellent drainage while retaining moisture to avoid drying out. Finally, it needs to be exposed to dappled sunlight and protected from full sun, which can damage its leaves and flowers.
Watering Needs for Bulbophyllum buchenauianum
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum requires regular watering to thrive. However, you should not over-water this plant or let its roots remain in standing water, as it can lead to root rot. Instead, it is better to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. A good way to determine this is by sticking your finger into the soil to feel its moisture content. Additionally, you need to water this plant early in the day to ensure that it dries out before nightfall, reducing the risk of fungal growth on the plant's surface.
Fertilization of Bulbophyllum buchenauianum
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum requires frequent feeding to boost its growth and blooming. You should apply a balanced fertilizer at half the recommended strength every two to three weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). In contrast, you should reduce the frequency of fertilizer application in fall and winter. Overfeeding can cause damage to the roots, so it is best to use a diluted solution and avoid direct spraying onto the foliage.
Pruning Bulbophyllum buchenauianum
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum needs minimal pruning, but you can trim off any dead or diseased parts of the plant. Additionally, when repotting, you can remove any damaged, dead, or excessively long roots to prevent them from spreading pathogens to other parts of the plant. Pruning can also be done to manage the plant's size and shape, mainly by cutting back the older pseudobulbs. However, you should do this with care to avoid damaging the plant and promote new growth.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum buchenauianum
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum can be propagated through various methods such as division, keikis, and seed sowing. The success rate of propagation varies depending on the method used, but all methods are relatively simple to carry out.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Bulbophyllum buchenauianum. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and replanting the divided sections into separate pots. It is best to divide the plant during the growing season when new growths are produced. Care should be taken not to damage the roots or pseudobulbs when dividing the plant.
Keikis
Keikis are plantlets that emerge from nodes along the stem of the plant. This is a natural method of propagation for Bulbophyllum buchenauianum. Keikis can be left on the parent plant or removed and potted separately. Keikis can be removed after they have developed their own root system but are still attached to the parent plant. Once removed, they should be potted in a well-draining orchid mix and kept in a warm, humid location.
Seed Sowing
Seed sowing is a less common method of propagation as it can be more difficult to achieve success. The seeds of Bulbophyllum buchenauianum are very small and require specific conditions for germination such as warm temperatures and high humidity. The seeds can be sown on a sterile medium such as agar or sphagnum moss, and placed in a warm, humid location with indirect light. Germination can take several months, and patience is required when using this method.
Disease Management for Bulbophyllum buchenauianum
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but it is still susceptible to some diseases. Here are some common diseases that can affect Bulbophyllum buchenauianum and ways to manage them:
Fungal leaf spots
Fungal leaf spots are caused by various fungal infections. These spots appear on leaves as small, round, or irregularly shaped tan or brown spots with dark borders. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves, avoid splashing water on the leaves, and maintain proper air circulation around the plant. Apply a fungicide spray that contains copper or sulfur, as directed by the manufacturer.
Bacterial soft rot
Bacterial soft rot causes the affected plant tissue to become mushy and discolored, ultimately leading to plant death. To manage this disease, remove the affected plant parts, disinfect any cutting tools used on the plant, and avoid overwatering the plant. Applying a bactericide may also be necessary.
Viral diseases
Viral diseases are difficult to manage and often result in stunted growth, yellowing or distortion of new leaves, and other deformities. To manage this disease, remove the affected plant parts and avoid introducing infected plants to your collection. There is no cure for viral infections.
Pest Management for Bulbophyllum buchenauianum
Bulbophyllum buchenauianum is generally not prone to pest infestations, but some pests can still be a problem. Here are some common pests that can affect Bulbophyllum buchenauianum and ways to manage them:
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage spider mites, use a gentle spray of water to wash off the pests from the leaves, increase the humidity around the plant, and use an insecticide spray that contains neem oil as directed by the manufacturer.
Scale insects
Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems and suck the sap. They appear as small, raised bumps on the leaves. To manage scale insects, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, and use an insecticide spray that contains neem oil as directed by the manufacturer.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied pests that appear as white, cottony masses on the leaves. They also feed on the sap of the plant. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them from the leaves, ensure proper air circulation around the plant, and use an insecticide spray that contains neem oil as directed by the manufacturer.
