Origin:
Bulbophyllum djumaense (De Wild.) De Wild. var. grandifolium De Wild. is a species of flowering plant in the orchid family. It is native to Central Africa, specifically Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Common Names:
This plant is commonly known as Djuma Bulbophyllum or Large-leaved Bulbophyllum. It can also be referred to as Bulbophyllum forrestii or Phyllorchis djumaensis.
Uses:
This plant is mainly grown as an ornamental species due to its beautiful and unique appearance. It is commonly used in gardens and landscapes to add a tropical flair. In some parts of Africa, however, the plant is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used to treat various illnesses.
General Appearance:
Bulbophyllum djumaense (De Wild.) De Wild. var. grandifolium De Wild. is an epiphytic orchid that can grow up to 30cm in height. It has pseudobulbs that are ovoid in shape, with the leaves growing up to 30cm in length. The flowers are approximately 2cm in diameter and can appear in clusters of up to 30. The petals and dorsal sepals are beige to brown in color, while the lip is yellow with red-purple spots. Overall, the plant has a striking and exotic appearance that makes it a popular choice among plant enthusiasts.
Light Requirements
Bulbophyllum djumaense var. grandifolium requires bright and indirect light for healthy growth. Therefore, it should be placed near an east-facing window or under a filtered light source. Direct sunlight may scorch its leaves and cause damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm and humid conditions. The optimal temperature range for Bulbophyllum djumaense var. grandifolium is between 20-28°C (68-82°F). Avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperatures, such as direct heat or cold drafts from air conditioners.
Soil Requirements
Bulbophyllum djumaense var. grandifolium requires well-draining soil that can retain moisture. Use a potting mix that includes orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. These components provide proper drainage and help to prevent waterlogging. It is important to avoid regular potting soil, as it tends to hold too much moisture which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation of Bulbophyllum djumaense
Bulbophyllum djumaense is an epiphytic orchid found growing naturally in the tropical rainforests of Africa. Cultivating the plant requires replicating the environmental conditions of the habitat to enable it to thrive.
The plant does well in a humid environment characterized by temperatures ranging between 18°C to 25°C. It prefers bright but filtered light rather than direct sunlight that can damage its leaves.
Watering Needs
Bulbophyllum djumaense does well in moist conditions, but the soil should not be waterlogged. Water the plant in the morning or evening to prevent excess moisture evaporation.
The humidity level around the plant should be kept high by misting the plant regularly. However, care should be taken not to saturate the leaves or stem with water as this can cause rotting.
Fertilization
Fertilize your orchid bi-weekly using a balanced orchid fertilizer to promote healthy growth. The fertilizer should be diluted to half its recommended strength before application.
During the flowering period, it is advisable to use a high-phosphorus fertilizer to enhance flowering. The application of fertilizer should be reduced during winter or dry seasons.
Pruning
Pruning Bulbophyllum djumaense promotes the growth of healthy new shoots and flowers. Cut off dead or yellowed leaves and flowers and trim any damaged stems.
Avoid pruning during the plant's dormancy period, which usually happens after flowering or during the dry season.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum Djumaense var. Grandifolium De Wild.
Bulbophyllum djumaense (De Wild.) De Wild. var. grandifolium De Wild., also known as Bulbophyllum grandifolium, is a beautiful orchid species that is native to Central and West Africa. It is highly sought after by orchid enthusiasts and collectors due to its unique appearance and fragrant flowers.
To propagate Bulbophyllum djumaense var. grandifolium De Wild., several methods can be used, including:
Propagation by division
One of the easiest and most common methods of propagating Bulbophyllum djumaense var. grandifolium De Wild. is by dividing the plant. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and potting them individually. To do this, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the pseudobulbs, ensuring that each division has roots and leaves. Repot each division in fresh potting mix and water well.
Propagation by keiki
Bulbophyllum djumaense var. grandifolium De Wild. can also be propagated by keiki, which are small plantlets that grow on the mother plant. To propagate using this method, wait until the keiki is at least 4 inches long before cutting it away from the parent plant. Plant the keiki in a small pot with fresh potting mix and care for it as you would its parent plant.
Propagation by seed
Propagation by seed is another viable method, but it requires a bit more effort and patience. To propagate Bulbophyllum djumaense var. grandifolium De Wild. through seed, collect the seeds from a mature plant and sow them in sterile potting medium. Keep the soil moist and warm, but not too wet, and in a bright but indirect light. The seeds should germinate within 4-6 weeks, and it takes several years for the plant to reach maturity.
Whichever propagation method you choose, it is important to ensure that the plant has proper care and attention, as it may take some time for the new plants to establish themselves and become fully mature. With a little patience and care, you can propagate Bulbophyllum djumaense var. grandifolium De Wild. and enjoy its unique beauty for years to come.
Disease Management
Bulbophyllum djumaense (De Wild.) De Wild. var. grandifolium De Wild. is not known to be affected by any major diseases, but it can still be attacked by fungal and bacterial infections. One disease that can affect the plant is root rot, which is caused by overwatering. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil is well-draining. If root rot occurs, cut off the infected roots and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Another disease that can affect the plant is leaf spot, which is caused by fungal infections. To prevent leaf spot, ensure that the plant has good air circulation and that the leaves are kept dry. If leaf spot occurs, prune affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Pest Management
One common pest that can affect Bulbophyllum djumaense (De Wild.) De Wild. var. grandifolium De Wild. is the mealybug. These pests can be identified by their white, cottony appearance and can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap.
Another common pest that can affect the plant is the spider mite. These pests are tiny and can be identified by their webbing and small, brown spots on the leaves. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a gentle stream of water to remove the pests. You can also treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
