Origin
Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f. is a species of orchid that is native to tropical West and Central Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Common Names
This orchid is commonly known as the Gabonese Bulbophyllum or the Gabonese Hare Orchid.
Uses
Bulbophyllum gabonis is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique beauty. The plant produces multiple small flowers with a distinctive shape and coloration. Although this species is not widely cultivated, it is a popular choice among orchid enthusiasts for its striking and unusual appearance.
General Appearance
Bulbophyllum gabonis is an epiphytic orchid that grows to a height of 10-20 cm. This species produces pseudobulbs which are small rounded structures that store water and nutrients. The plant's leaves are oval-shaped, approximately 5 cm long, and are typically a deep green color.
Bulbophyllum gabonis produces numerous small flowers that are approximately 2-3 cm in diameter. The flowers are usually a pale yellow-green color with brown spots. The lip of the flower is notably large and resembles a hare's head, which is where the plant's common name, the Gabonese Hare Orchid, comes from.
Bulbophyllum gabonis requires a warm and humid environment to thrive and can be grown in a pot or mounted on a piece of wood or cork. It prefers bright, indirect light and should be watered sparingly to avoid waterlogging.
Light Requirements
Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f. requires bright but indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and hinder growth. Ideal lighting conditions would be partial shade or filtered sunlight through a sheer curtain or blinds.
Temperature Requirements
Native to tropical climates, Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f. thrives in warm and humid conditions. The recommended temperature range for this plant is between 60-85°F (16-29°C). Avoid placing the plant in areas with significant temperature fluctuations, such as near air conditioning units or drafts.
Soil Requirements
Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f. requires a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Ideal soil pH ranges from slightly acidic to neutral (5.5-7). The soil should not be allowed to dry out between watering but should not be kept too moist as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to repot this plant every 1-2 years using fresh potting mix.
Cultivation Methods for Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f.
Bulbophyllum gabonis is quite adaptable and can grow well both in pots and mounted on trees or logs. When growing in pots, ensure the pot has good drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mixture. If mounting, use a sturdy branch or slab of cork bark with the plant firmly attached using sphagnum moss or fishing line.
Watering Needs for Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f.
Bulbophyllum gabonis does not like to dry out completely, but it doesn't like to be too wet either. Watering should be done when the potting mixture or moss is almost dry. It is recommended to give it a thorough watering and allow excess water to drain out before returning to its growing location.
Fertilization for Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f.
Bulbophyllum gabonis should be given a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). During the winter months, reduce fertilization or stop altogether.
Pruning for Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f.
Pruning is not necessary for Bulbophyllum gabonis but can be done to encourage branching and more compact growth. Any dead or yellowing leaves or pseudo-bulbs can be removed using sterilized pruning shears.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f.
Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f. can easily be propagated through vegetative means such as division, keiki production, and tissue culture.
Division: The most common method of propagating Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f. is through division. Divide the plant during the growing season when new shoots or growths are forming. Carefully separate the growths and replant them in suitable potting mix.
Keiki production: Another vegetative method is keiki production, which involves growing plantlets from the basal nodes of the existing plant. Encourage keiki production by providing high humidity and warmth to the plant. Once a keiki has developed roots, it can be carefully cut from the parent plant and potted in suitable potting mix.
Tissue culture: Tissue culture is a method of vegetative propagation that involves growing plant cells or tissues in a laboratory. This method allows for the production of large numbers of identical plants in a short period. The process involves collecting plant cells or tissues, placing them in a nutrient-rich medium, and providing them with optimum conditions for growth and development. Once the plants have grown enough, they are transferred to suitable potting mix.
Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f. can be somewhat challenging to propagate due to its specific growing requirements and needs. However, with proper care and attention, successful propagation is possible through the above-mentioned methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f.
Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f., commonly known as the Gabonese Bulbophyllum, is a species of orchid that is native to Central Africa. Like all plants, it is vulnerable to a range of potential diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health. Here are some of the most common issues that may arise, and some suggestions for disease and pest management:
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are a common problem for many types of plants, and the Gabonese Bulbophyllum is no exception. These tiny pests can be difficult to spot, but if they are present, you may notice a fine webbing around the leaves and flowers of the orchid. To control spider mites, you can try spraying the affected areas with a mixture of water and soap, or using insecticidal oils. It may also be helpful to increase the humidity around the plant, as spider mites thrive in dry conditions.
Thrips: Thrips are another common pest that can cause problems for the Gabonese Bulbophyllum. These tiny insects feed on plant sap and can cause discoloration or distortion of the leaves and flowers. To control thrips, you can try using sticky traps to catch them, or spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
Diseases
Black rot: Black rot is a fungal disease that can affect many different types of plants, including orchids. It typically starts as small black spots on the leaves or pseudobulbs, and can quickly spread if left untreated. To manage black rot, it is important to remove any affected plant material and treat the remaining plant with a fungicide. You can also try adjusting your watering practices, as overwatering can contribute to the development of this disease.
Crown rot: Crown rot is another fungal disease that can affect the Gabonese Bulbophyllum. It typically occurs when the plant is overwatered or has poor drainage, and can cause the leaves and pseudobulbs to become mushy and discolored. To manage crown rot, it is important to improve the plant's growing conditions by ensuring that it has appropriate drainage and avoiding overwatering. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide to help control the spread of the disease.
Virus: Viruses can also affect the health of the Gabonese Bulbophyllum, although they are less common than pests or fungal diseases. Symptoms of virus infection may include abnormal growth patterns, discoloration of leaves or flowers, or stunted growth. Unfortunately, there is no cure for virus-infected plants, so the best approach is to prevent their spread by maintaining good hygiene practices and avoiding contact between infected plants and healthy ones.
By monitoring your Bulbophyllum gabonis Lindl. & Rchb.f. and taking prompt action to address any pest or disease issues that arise, you can help ensure that your plant stays healthy and thriving.
