Origin of Bulbophyllum scaberulum
Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum is a species of orchid native to the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa.
Common Names of Bulbophyllum scaberulum
Common names of Bulbophyllum scaberulum include the "Scabrous Bulbophyllum" and the "Rough Bulbophyllum".
Uses of Bulbophyllum scaberulum
Bulbophyllum scaberulum is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers. The plant produces long, arching inflorescences with numerous small, fragrant flowers. It is a popular choice among orchid enthusiasts for its unique appearance and interesting growth habits.
General Appearance of Bulbophyllum scaberulum
Bulbophyllum scaberulum is an epiphytic orchid with thin, wiry stems that grow in a creeping fashion. The leaves are small and oval-shaped, with a slightly rough texture. The inflorescence typically grows to be 30-40cm long and holds up to 20 small, yellow-green flowers with a reddish-brown lip.
Overall, Bulbophyllum scaberulum is a fascinating and unique orchid species which is sure to be a conversation starter in any garden or greenhouse.
Light Conditions
The Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum plant requires bright but indirect sunlight to grow. Placing the plant near a window that receives partial sunlight is the ideal spot. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, and too little light can negatively affect the plant's growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures, ranging from 18? to 22? (64? to 72?). The plant cannot tolerate temperatures that fall below 15? (59?). Hence, it is crucial to keep the plant in a warm location with consistent temperatures.
Water and Soil Requirements
The Bulbophyllum scaberulum plant prefers well-draining soil. A mixture of orchid bark, charcoal, and perlite is ideal for planting. The plant should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the humidity levels. The soil should not be too dry or too wet. Watering should be done when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. The plant should be watered thoroughly, allowing the water to drain out from the bottom of the pot. It is essential to avoid getting water on the leaves as this can promote bacterial growth.
Humidity Requirements
Bulbophyllum scaberulum plants prefer high humidity levels of about 60% to 80%. Misting the leaves using a spray bottle daily can increase humidity levels. Alternatively, a humidifier can be used to maintain consistent humidity levels. Dry air can cause the plant to develop brown tips or edges on its leaves.
Cultivation Methods
Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum is a species of orchids that prefers shady conditions. The plant requires adequate air circulation and moderate temperatures to thrive. When growing the Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum, it is best to use a well-draining substrate that comprises a mix of pine bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. The plant thrives in a high humidity environment, making it necessary to consider using a humidifier, especially during dry seasons.
Watering Needs
Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum requires regular watering to grow optimally. The plant's watering frequency depends on factors such as the substrate type and the weather. However, it is generally advisable to water the orchid when the substrate nears dryness. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that the substrate is appropriately drained to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilizing your Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum is crucial for promoting robust growth and flowering. It is advisable to use a balanced orchid fertilizer that has a 20-20-20 ratio during the growing season. That is, during spring and summer, fertilize your plant weekly to ensure optimal growth. During winter, you can reduce the fertilization frequency to once or twice a month. Over-fertilizing your plant can result in burnt roots and scorched leaves.
Pruning
Pruning involves removing dead and wilted leaves and stems to keep the plant healthy. It is best to use a sterilized cutting tool to prune your orchid. Ensure that you make a clean cut to avoid injuring the plant. Additionally, you can also remove any infected or diseased parts of the plant to prevent further spread. Pruning improves the overall appearance of the plant, enhances airflow, and ensures that your Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum remains healthy.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum
Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum is commonly propagated through vegetative means, specifically through the division of mature pseudobulbs.
Division of Pseudobulbs
The most common method of propagating Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum is through the separation of pseudobulbs. This can be done during the plant's dormant period, which is typically in the fall or winter. When dividing the plant, it is important to ensure each pseudobulb has at least one viable growth point. The rhizome section that connects the pseudobulbs can also be divided as long as each section has at least one pseudobulb.
Before planting the divisions, the cut sections should be allowed to dry for 24 hours to prevent fungal or bacterial infections. The pseudobulbs can then be planted in a well-draining orchid mix and kept in a humid environment until new growth appears.
Propagation through Keikis
Bulbophyllum scaberulum (Rolfe) Bolus var. scaberulum will sometimes produce plantlets called keikis along the length of the flower stem. These keikis can be carefully removed and potted once they have developed their own roots. It is important to ensure that each keiki has a healthy root system before potting it in an orchid mix.
Disease Management
Bulbophyllum scaberulum is prone to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them-
Fungal Infections
The most common fungal infections that affect Bulbophyllum scaberulum are stem rot, leaf spot, and root rot. The main causes of these infections are prolonged high humidity and poor air circulation. To manage fungal infections, you need to remove all infected plant parts, improve air circulation and reduce humidity around the plant. You can also use fungicides to control the spread of the infection.
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections are less common in Bulbophyllum scaberulum, but they can be severe if left untreated. The most common bacterial infections are soft rot and leaf blight. To manage bacterial infections, you need to remove all infected plant tissues and disinfect any tools used on the plant. Applying a copper-based bactericide can also help control the spread of the infection.
Pest Management
Bulbophyllum scaberulum is also vulnerable to several pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them-
Scale Insects
Scale insects are the most common pests that infest Bulbophyllum scaberulum. They typically appear as small, round bumps on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage scale insects, you need to physically remove them using a cotton swab dipped in a solution of water and rubbing alcohol. You can also spray an insecticide on the plant to control their spread.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can multiply quickly and cause damage to the leaves of Bulbophyllum scaberulum. The first signs of spider mites are small brown spots on the leaves. To manage spider mites, you need to spray the plant with a miticide or insecticide that specifically targets spider mites. You can also increase the humidity around the plant to discourage spider mites from breeding.
