Overview
Bulbophyllum nummularium (Kraenzl.) Rolfe is a species of orchid that belongs to the Bulbophyllum genus. It is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in several countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The plant is well-known amongst orchid enthusiasts for its unique appearance and fragrant flowers.
Common names
B. nummularium has several common names including, Coin-leaved Bulbophyllum, Round-leaved Bulbophyllum, and Penny orchid. These names are derived from the plant's round-shaped leaves that resemble coins or pennies.
Appearance
Bulbophyllum nummularium is a small to medium-sized orchid that typically grows to a height of 20-40 cm. The plant has thin stems that grow in a creeping manner. The leaves of B. nummularium are circular or ovular in shape and about 1-2 cm in size. The plant's flowers grow in clusters and are usually yellow or orange in color. The flowers are also known for their pleasant and fruity fragrance.
Uses
While B. nummularium is not commonly used for medicinal, culinary, or ornamental purposes, the plant's exotic appearance and fragrance make it a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts.
Growth Conditions of Bulbophyllum nummularium
Bulbophyllum nummularium is a species of orchid that is native to Southeast Asia. To grow this plant successfully, certain growth conditions must be provided.
Light Conditions
Bulbophyllum nummularium grows well under bright, indirect sunlight. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight as it can cause damage to the leaves. The plant can be placed near a north or east-facing windowsill with sheer curtain coverings for ideal conditions.
Temperature Conditions
The ideal temperature for the growth of Bulbophyllum nummularium is between 60°F and 80°F during the day, with a slight drop at night. This plant can tolerate cooler temperature ranges than other orchid species, making it perfect for indoor growth.
Soil Requirements
Bulbophyllum nummularium grows best in a well-draining substrate, which can provide good aeration to the roots. A mixture of equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and bark chips is a suitable substrate for this plant. A potting mix with good drainage is necessary to prevent overwatering, which can cause the roots to rot.
Humidity Requirements
Bulbophyllum nummularium thrives in high humidity levels that range between 60% to 80%. The plant should be regularly misted with water to maintain the required humidity levels. Alternatively, placing a humidifier next to the plant can also be helpful.
Fertilization Requirements
Bulbophyllum nummularium requires regular fertilization throughout its growing season, which usually falls between spring and summer. A high-quality fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio, such as 15-15-15, is ideal for the growth of this plant. The fertilizer should be diluted to half strength and applied weekly to the potting mix.
Cultivation
Bulbophyllum nummularium (Kraenzl.) Rolfe is a tropical epiphytic orchid that can be cultivated at home or in a greenhouse. This plant requires a mixture of well-draining soil and organic material. It prefers a humid environment with temperatures between 60 to 75°F. Place the plant in a location that receives indirect sunlight or filtered light to avoid scorching its leaves.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Bulbophyllum nummularium (Kraenzl.) Rolfe orchid depend on the temperature and humidity of the environment. Water the orchid once a week during the warmer months and reduce watering to once every two weeks during the cooler seasons. Allow the soil to dry slightly before watering. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, leading to the death of the plant.
Fertilization
Bulbophyllum nummularium (Kraenzl.) Rolfe orchid needs fertilizer to thrive. Fertilize the plant once a week with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. During the dormant season, reduce fertilization to once a month. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength and apply it to the soil when watering the plant.
Pruning
Bulbophyllum nummularium (Kraenzl.) Rolfe orchids do not require extensive pruning. Remove any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves promptly. Additionally, cut back the flower spike once the flowers have faded. This will encourage the plant to produce a new flower spike in the future. Avoid cutting back healthy leaves as this can lead to stunted growth, and eventually, the death of the plant.
Propagation methods for Bulbophyllum nummularium (Kraenzl.) Rolfe
Bulbophyllum nummularium (Kraenzl.) Rolfe is a species of orchid that is widely appreciated for its beautiful flowers. If you are interested in propagating this plant, you will be happy to know that there are a couple of methods that you can use.
Propagation by division
The most common method for propagating Bulbophyllum nummularium (Kraenzl.) Rolfe is by division. This method involves separating the plant into two or more sections and replanting them in different pots. This method works best when the plant has outgrown its current pot or when it has become too large to handle.
To propagate by division, gently remove the plant from its pot and separate the bulbs or offsets with a sharp, clean knife. Ensure that each section has some roots attached to it. Plant each section in a pot with fresh potting soil and water generously.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Another propagation method for Bulbophyllum nummularium (Kraenzl.) Rolfe is by stem cuttings. This method involves selecting a healthy stem from the plant and cutting it into pieces that are about 5 cm long. Ensure that each cutting has at least one node and some leaves attached to it.
Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone and plant them in a pot with fresh potting soil. Water the cuttings well and keep the soil moist until they have rooted. Once the cuttings have rooted, transplant them into individual pots.
Propagation by seed
The third and final propagation method for Bulbophyllum nummularium (Kraenzl.) Rolfe is by seed. This method is the most challenging and time-consuming. It involves collecting seed pods from the plant and sowing them in a sterile potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist and warm until the seeds germinate. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots once they are large enough to handle.
Propagation by seed is not recommended for beginners, as it requires a lot of patience and attention to detail.
Disease Management
Bulbophyllum nummularium is vulnerable to several plant diseases which, if not treated in time, can damage or kill the plant. Fungal diseases, especially black rot and Fusarium, are among the most common diseases that affect Bulbophyllum nummularium. These diseases typically result from overwatering, poor ventilation, and high humidity, and they manifest as black spots on the leaves, pseudobulbs, and flowers.
To prevent these diseases from spreading, it is critical to isolate infected plants and then treat them with a fungicide. Additionally, avoiding overwatering, removing dead leaves and flowers, and ensuring good ventilation around the plant can help prevent these diseases from occurring.
Pest Management
Like most houseplants, Bulbophyllum nummularium is vulnerable to several pests, including mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, leaving behind stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and a sticky residue on the leaves and stems.
To control these pests, one can use insecticidal soap or neem oil which are effective in controlling these pests. One can also control the spread of these pests by placing the plant in isolation, pruning heavily infested branches, and maintaining good plant hygiene.
Routinely checking for pests on plants in your collection, quarantining new plants, and frequently cleaning and wiping the leaves with a damp cloth can keep your plants healthy and pest-free.
