SafePlants

Bulbophyllum: An Overview

Bulbophyllum is a vast and fascinating genus within the orchid family (Orchidaceae), boasting over 2,000 species, making it one of the largest genera of flowering plants.

Considerations for Pets

• Some Bulbophyllum species are epiphytes or lithophytes, growing on rocks or cliffs in the wild. If grown in the home, consider any loose media the plant may be potted in.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Bulbophyllum Thouars, 1822
• Family: Orchidaceae (Orchid Family)
• Major Group: Angiosperms (Flowering Plants)
• Synonyms:
  • Bullbophyllum claptonense Rolfe 1905
  • Bullbophyllum henshallii Lindley 1852
  • Bulbophyllum lobbii Lindley var henshallii LindleyHenfrey 1852
  • Cirrhopetalum formosanum Rolfe, Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1914: 372. 1914.

Distribution and Habitat

• Bulbophyllum is a pantropical genus with a center of distribution in Southeast Asia, extending to New Guinea and Australia, westward through India, and into Africa.
• One of the centres of distribution of this genus is said to be New Guinea with about 600 species.
• Some species are found in specific locations, such as Bulbophyllum minutissimum, which is endemic to eastern regions.
• Some species, like Bulbophyllum ambrosia, originate from Vietnam and grow on rocks and cliffs in various conditions.
• The Section Macrobulbon species are found only in the Old World.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• The name Bulbophyllum is derived from the Greek words "bulbos" (bulb) and "phyllon" (leaf), referring to the plant's structure.
• Bulbophyllum minutissimum is described as a creeping epiphyte or lithophyte.
• Some species are rambling plants.

Quirky Facts

• Bulbophyllum nocturnum, discovered on the island of New Britain (Papua New Guinea), is the first known orchid with flowers that bloom at night.
• Bulbophyllum minutissimum is known as one of the smallest orchids in the world.

Genetic and Cytological Information

• Chromosome numbers are documented for 45 named species of Bulbophyllum.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The text mentions studies on resupination (twisting of the flower) in Madagascan Bulbophyllum species and their relation to outcrossing and selfing.

Further Information

• Species information can be found at Wikispecies: Bulbophyllum on Wikispecies.
• Reference is made to the Orchidaceae of North America Update database.