Origin
Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum is a species in the genus Bulbophyllum which is native to the Philippines. This orchid species is found in Palawan and Mindanao in the southern part of Philippines.
Common Names
The Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum is commonly known as the "Calypso Bulbophyllum" or "Calypso Orchid". It is also known as Bulbophyllum ventricosum Rolfe var. lilacinum Schltr.
Uses
The Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum is a popular plant among orchid enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and fragrant flowers. However, it is not commonly used for any medicinal or culinary purposes.
General Appearance
The Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum is an epiphytic or lithophytic orchid that can grow up to 30 cm in height. It has a creeping rhizome that gives rise to several pseudobulbs. The pseudobulbs are ovoid to ellipsoid in shape and measure up to 3 cm in diameter. The leaves are fleshy, oblong-lanceolate, and measure up to 13 cm in length. The plant produces a single inflorescence that is up to 10 cm in length and bears several small flowers. The flowers are pink to purple in color and have a distinctive fragrance that resembles rotting meat.
Light requirements
Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum prefers bright, filtered light with a preference for a shady growing environment. Direct sunlight can damage the delicate leaves of the plant causing permanent damage. It is ideal to keep the plant under artificial light for 10-12 hours a day if natural light isn't available.
Temperature requirements
The plant prefers a warm and humid growing environment with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Low temperatures can cause the plant to become dormant, while high temperatures can cause damage to the plant's foliage. It is important to maintain consistent temperatures around the plant to ensure proper growth.
Soil requirements
Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum is an epiphytic plant, meaning that it grows on other plants or structures and does not require soil. It can be cultivated on a variety of mediums such as coconut husks, tree ferns, or sphagnum moss. The medium should be kept moist, but not too wet, as the plant cannot tolerate water-logged conditions. The plant requires good drainage and aeration, for which the growing medium should be coarse and porous.
Cultivation
The Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum is commonly known as the "Buckle orchid". It is a gorgeous orchid species that requires specific care. You can cultivate the plant indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse. The plant is an epiphytic species, so it will grow on trees. When growing indoors, provide good aeration, a well-draining potting mix, and a humid environment to prevent dry air.
Watering Needs
The Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum requires consistent watering. During its growing season, it needs to be watered regularly to keep it hydrated. Take care not to overwater; otherwise, the roots might rot. The best way to water the orchid plant is to wait until the top layer of the potting mixture dries out, then give it enough water to moisten the entire mixture. Always use room temperature or warm water to avoid shocking the plant.
Fertilization
Orchids generally have minimal nutritional requirements. Hence, you should fertilize them responsibly and at the right time. The Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum needs to be fertilized weekly to encourage lush growth. Use a balanced fertilizer, and do not add fertilizer more frequently than once per week. Apply fertilizer only when the plant is visibly growing to avoid over-fertilizing.
Pruning
The Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum requires minimal pruning since it is an epiphyte. You may need to trim the plant's roots if they start to feel crowded in their container. You can also prune the plant's flowering spike after flowering since it will not flower again. Do not prune the plant's top growth, as it may inhibit the orchid's ability to photosynthesize and grow.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum
Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum can be propagated through various methods. The most common propagation methods include:
Division
The easiest and most common method of propagation is through division. This is best done during the plant's active growth phase when new growth or new shoots start to appear. The clump can be carefully divided by gently pulling apart the individual bulbs, making sure that each new division has at least three growths and a good portion of roots attached. Plant each division in a new pot filled with well-draining substrate, keep it moist, and in a shaded area until new growth is visible.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings is a less common method of propagation for Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum but can be done when new shoots and roots appear from the base of the plant. Cut the stem just above the aerial roots with a clean, sharp blade and plant it into a suitable substrate. Keep the substrate moist and in a shaded area until the new growth is established.
Back bulbs
Back bulbs that have not bloomed for two or three seasons can also be used for propagation. Carefully remove one or two of the older bulbs from the back of the clump and re-pot them in a suitable substrate. Water it lightly and keep it in a shaded area until new growth appears.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum can be done through the above-mentioned methods with little to no difficulty. The success rate of propagation varies depending on various environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, light, and substrate type.
Disease and Pest Management for Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum
Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum, commonly known as the 'Beaked Bulbophyllum,' is a species of orchid native to Southeast Asia. As with all plants, this species is susceptible to pests and diseases that can affect its growth and development. Here is a list of common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Bacterial infections: These can cause rotting of the roots and leaves. Affected areas turn black or brown, and the plant may wither. To manage bacterial infections, remove and discard severely affected parts, and treat the remaining parts with copper fungicides.
2. Fungal diseases: Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum is vulnerable to fungal infections like rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Fungal diseases manifest as yellow or brown spots on leaves, stems, or flowers. The affected area then spreads and may lead to defoliation or death. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering, and ensure proper ventilation in the growing area. Treat affected parts with a fungicide, and remove severely infected parts.
Pests
1. Spider mites: These tiny arachnids feed on the sap of Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum, causing leaves to wilt and turn yellow. To control spider mites, wash plant leaves regularly with insecticidal soap and water, and maintain a humid environment.
2. Mealybugs: These insects suck sap from the plant and can cause the leaves to turn yellow or distort. To manage mealybugs, remove them by hand or use insecticidal soap. Repeat this process until the infestation disappears.
3. Scale insects: Scale insects attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and extract sap. An infestation of these pests can cause leaves to yellow and wither. To control scale insects, physically remove them from the plant using a clean, soft cloth or use an insecticidal soap.
By being vigilant about disease and pest management, Bulbophyllum calyptratum Kraenzl. var. calyptratum can be kept healthy and beautiful.
