Overview
Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. is a plant species belonging to the Orchid family. It is native to Central Africa, specifically Cameroon and Nigeria. The plant is known for its stunning flowers and is commonly used as an ornamental plant for its beauty and rarity.
Common Names
The plant has several common names including Miles' Bulbophyllum, Miles' Dendrobium, and Large-Flowered Bulbophyllum.
Appearance
Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. is a large epiphyte that grows up to 60cm in height. The plant has a robust pseudobulb that is covered by a papery sheath. The leaves are leathery, oval-shaped, and grow up to 20cm long. The plant produces a large inflorescence that features 10 to 25 flowers. The flowers are large, around 10cm in diameter, and are colored white with pink spots. The plant has a unique odor that has been compared to rotting flesh.
Uses
The plant has primarily been used as an ornamental plant due to its stunning flowers. It is well-loved by orchid collectors and enthusiasts and is prized for its beauty and rarity. The plant is also known to have medicinal properties, as some cultures have used it to cure a variety of ailments, including stomach issues and fever. However, it is worth noting that the efficacy of these use cases is not yet scientifically proven.
Light Requirements:
Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. thrives in bright, indirect light. They prefer an environment with 50-70% shade, hence it is recommended to place them near an east or north-facing window. In their natural habitat, they grow under the canopy of trees. Therefore, direct sunlight should be avoided as it can cause leaf and flower burn.
Temperature Requirements:
For Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh., the ideal temperature range is between 18-29°C (65-85°F). They are native to tropical regions, where the temperature remains consistent throughout the year. It is recommended to protect the plant from sudden temperature fluctuations, draft, and extreme heat or cold. Low temperatures can harm the roots and cause leaf drop.
Soil Requirements:
Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. prefers a well-draining medium that holds some moisture. A mix of sphagnum moss, orchid bark, and perlite can provide the ideal environment for the plant's roots. It is recommended to repot the plant every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and avoid soil compaction. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the roots and cause root rot.
Cultivation of Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh.
Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. is native to Tanzania and is a favorite among orchid lovers for its unique fragrant flowers.
The orchid requires bright, but indirect sunlight to grow correctly. It is recommended that you set it up close to an East-facing window or outside under an awning. Direct sunlight can cause scorching of the leaves and flowers.
The orchid thrives in warm temperatures and requires a minimum of 60°F. It is essential to ensure that the plant is never exposed to temperatures below 50°F. Furthermore, ensure that the temperature is not too high, as this will cause the development of weak and leggy leaves.
Watering needs
One of the essential elements of caring for Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. is watering. The plant requires a well-draining medium to prevent root-rot, which can be fatal. The frequency of watering will depend on the environment, but ensure that you allow the medium to dry out between waterings.
It is recommended that you water the plant at the base of the pot to prevent water from settling on the leaves and causing fungal growth. Furthermore, it is essential to use clean water to avoid salt buildup and mineral contamination, which can damage the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the orchid's growth and should be done weekly or bi-weekly. Use a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer and dilute it to half its recommended strength. Overfertilizing can cause the leaves to develop brown tips, and too much nitrogen can cause the orchid to develop long, weak leaves.
It is also essential to flush the pot with clean water every three months to remove mineral buildup in the soil.
Pruning
Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. does not require pruning as they prefer to grow and spread out naturally. However, it is important to prune any sickly or dead parts of the plant as soon as they appear to prevent any further damage.
Furthermore, if the plant becomes too big for its pot, it is essential to repot it to a larger pot to give it room to grow. Repotting should be done when the orchid is not blooming, preferably in the spring or summer.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh.
Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh., also known as the "Golden Shower Orchid," is a beautiful orchid species that can be propagated through several methods. Here are the propagation methods for Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh.:
Division
Division is one of the most common methods used to propagate Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and potting them individually. Gently remove the parent plant from its pot and separate the offsets or pseudobulbs with a sharp and sterile knife. Ensure that each section has enough roots and a few leaves. Then, pot the divisions in small pots with a well-draining growing medium and water.
Keiki Offsets
Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. can also produce keiki offsets, which are tiny plantlets that grow from the mother plant's stem. These plantlets can be separated from the parent plant once they have a few roots and leaves. Cut the keiki from the mother plant's stem and plant it in its container with a well-draining growing medium. Water it and keep it in a warm, humid environment until it has developed strong roots and leaves.
Cutting
Propagation through cutting involves taking stem or leaf cuttings of Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. and potting them in a growing medium. Cut a section of the stem or a healthy leaf and remove the bottom pair of leaves. Then, dip the cuttings in rooting hormone to encourage the growth of roots and plant them in a well-draining potting medium. Water them thoroughly and cover them with a clear plastic bag to maintain high humidity. After 4-6 weeks, roots will start to form, and new growth will emerge.
Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. is an easy-to-grow orchid species that can be propagated through several methods. Choose the method that works best for you and enjoy growing this beautiful plant!
Disease and Pest Management for Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh.
Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. is a beautiful orchid that is native to Africa. While generally a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to diseases and pests that can cause damage and harm to the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some ways to manage them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. is bacterial blight. This disease is caused by a bacterium that attacks the plant's leaves and stems. Symptoms of bacterial blight include water-soaked spots on the leaves, which eventually turn into brown, necrotic lesions. The disease can also cause the stems to rot.
To manage bacterial blight, it is important to practice good plant hygiene. Keep the plant clean and free of debris, and avoid getting water on the leaves or stems. If you suspect that your plant has bacterial blight, remove any infected material immediately and dispose of it properly. You can also use a copper-based fungicide to help control the disease.
Pests
Like many other orchids, Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. is susceptible to a number of pests. Some common pests that can affect the plant include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
Spider mites are small pests that can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. They are most common in dry conditions and can be managed by regularly misting the plant with water and using a neem oil-based insecticide.
Mealybugs are white, waxy pests that can be found in clusters on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be difficult to manage, but using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them can be effective. You can also use an insecticidal soap to help control the population.
Scale insects are small pests that can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be managed by using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them or by using an insecticide that contains neem oil.
With proper care and management, Bulbophyllum milesii Summerh. can thrive and be a beautiful addition to any collection. By recognizing and addressing any potential issues that arise, you can help ensure the health and longevity of your plant.
