Overview
Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Orchidaceae. This epiphytic species is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines.Common Names
Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. goes by various common names in its native regions, including "yellow-tongued Bulbophyllum" and "golden-lipped Bulbophyllum".Appearance
The Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. plant is small in size and typically grows up to around 10-15 cm in height. It features numerous pseudobulbs with long, thin leaves that sprout from the top of each bulb. The plant's flowers are characterized by their yellow-green sepals and petals, which are enclosed in a lip that is golden-yellow in color.Uses
Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. is primarily used for ornamental purposes and is often grown as a houseplant. It is highly appreciated by orchid enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and relatively easy care requirements. The plant can be grown in a pot or mounted on a piece of bark or other material. Additionally, it is occasionally used in local traditional medicine for various purposes.Light Requirements
Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. requires bright but indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn and damage the plant. It is best to place the plant near a window that receives bright, filtered light or under artificial lighting that emits similar light intensity.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in temperatures ranging from 18 to 29°C. It is essential to avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts or temperatures below 13°C as it can adversely affect the plant growth. It is recommended to maintain constant temperature conditions to ensure healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. thrives in well-draining, loose soil that is high in organic matter. The soil should be a mixture of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite in equal parts. This mixture allows adequate drainage while retaining enough moisture for plant growth. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
Cultivation
Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. is a tropical orchid that requires warm and humid conditions for optimal growth. It can be grown in a pot using a well-draining medium, such as bark, charcoal, and perlite.
It should be placed in a bright spot with filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can damage the foliage. It thrives in temperatures between 65-85°F (18-30°C) and requires consistent air circulation.
Watering needs
Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. prefers to be consistently moist but not waterlogged. The potting mix should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering to prevent root rot. Watering once a week during the active growing season and less frequently during the dormant season is recommended. It’s also important to avoid getting water on the foliage, as the leaves can be susceptible to rot and disease.
Fertilization
During the active growing season, Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer, such as 20-20-20, can be applied every other week, following the manufacturer's instructions. During the dormant season, fertilization can be reduced or stopped altogether.
Pruning
Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. does not require frequent pruning, but dead or yellowing foliage can be removed to improve the plant's appearance. Any damaged, diseased, or pest-infested roots should also be trimmed away. Care should be taken not to damage healthy roots or the plant may become stressed and struggle to grow.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. can be done through two methods, namely division and seed propagation.
Division
Division is the easiest and most common way to propagate Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. It involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections. This can be done during the repotting stage when the plant has outgrown its current pot and requires a larger one.
Ensure that each section has at least two pseudobulbs, and the sections should be separated by a sterilized knife. After separation, place each section in a separate pot and provide the necessary growing conditions for successful growth.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is a more complicated method than division and requires more effort and patience. It is suitable for growers who want to expand their collection or breeders who want to create hybrids.
Collect the seeds from the mature seedpods when they turn brown. Sow them in the sterile medium, such as sphagnum moss or orchid bark, in a suitable container. The container should have a transparent lid to maintain high humidity levels and allow sunlight to reach the seedlings.
Once the seeds have germinated, transplant them into individual pots. Provide the necessary growing conditions, such as bright but indirect light, high humidity levels, and good air circulation, for successful growth.
Disease Management
Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. is a hardy orchid that is generally not prone to many diseases if kept in appropriate growing conditions. However, some of the common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Bacterial Soft Rot: This disease is caused by bacteria that infect the plant through wounds, cuts, or insect bites. Symptoms include soft and watery tissues, foul smell, and discoloration. The best way to manage it is to prevent wounds by avoiding overwatering or providing good ventilation.
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by fungi that live in soil or decaying organic matter. Symptoms include brown spots on leaves, yellowing, and wilting. The best way to manage it is to avoid overcrowding and to discard infected plant material immediately.
- Black Rot: This disease is caused by fungi that infect the roots of the plant. Symptoms include blackened and decayed roots, yellowing, and wilting. The best way to manage it is to avoid overwatering and to ensure good drainage.
Pest Management
Bulbophyllum xanthoglossum Schltr. is also generally not prone to many pests if kept in appropriate growing conditions. However, some of the common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Spider mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to spot. They feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing and browning of leaves. The best way to manage them is to provide good humidity and to spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These pests are white and fluffy and are usually found in clusters on the plant. They feed on sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. The best way to manage them is to remove them manually with tweezers and to spray the plant with a solution of water and neem oil.
- Scale Insects: These pests are small and flat and usually found on the undersides of leaves. They feed on sap, causing yellowing and curling of leaves. The best way to manage them is to remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol and to spray the plant with a solution of water and insecticidal soap.
