Bulbophyllum lobbii - exemplare dezvoltate

Bulbophyllum lobbii , also known as Lobb's Bulbophyllum or Thailand Bulbophyllum , is an epiphytic orchid in the Orchidaceae family, prized for its large, fragrant flowers and exotic appearance. Native to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand, this species is ideal for orchid collectors and enthusiasts, due to its spectacular blooms and moderate care requirements.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

• Leaves : The leaves are single, elliptical, 5-10 cm long, dark green, with a leathery texture. Each pseudobulb bears a single leaf, arranged at the tip, forming an attractive contrast to the flowers.
• Flowers : The flowers are large, 7.5-10 cm, solitary, appearing on 15 cm flower stalks, in summer or spring-autumn, depending on conditions. They are golden yellow or cream in color, with brown or purple markings, and a mobile, deep purple labellum (lip) that sways, attracting pollinators. The flowers are fragrant, with a pleasant, floral scent, unlike other Bulbophyllums with unpleasant aromas.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : Reaches 20-40 cm in height, including the floral stem, and 15-30 cm in width, forming a compact plant, with conical pseudobulbs, well spaced on the rhizome.
• Vigor : Moderate growth, sympodial, with new pseudobulbs appearing annually. It is suitable for pots, baskets or mounted on bark.
• Type : Perennial, evergreen epiphytic orchid.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers moderate indirect light (15,000-20,000 lux), ideally near a shaded east or south window. Avoid direct sun, which can burn the leaves.
• Soil : Grows in porous, well-drained substrate such as sphagnum moss, pine bark, or fern fiber, which retains moisture without compacting. Can be mounted on bark with roots sprayed frequently.
• Watering : Water frequently, 3-5 times a week in summer, keeping the substrate moist but not soggy. In winter, reduce watering to once a week, letting the substrate dry out slightly. Use rainwater or distilled water.
• Temperature : Prefers temperatures of 24-28°C during the day and 14-15°C at night, with a daily difference of 9-11°C. Avoid temperatures above 35°C or below 15°C.
• Humidity : Prefers high humidity. Ensure good air circulation.

Care and resistance

• Resistance : Resistant to indoor conditions, but sensitive to excessive watering and direct light. May be affected by fungi or mites; provide ventilation and treat with fungicides when necessary. Tolerates temporary low humidity well.
• Fertilization : Apply an orchid fertilizer (e.g. 20-20-20 diluted 1/4) weekly in spring and summer. Switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer in fall to encourage flowering. Rinse the substrate monthly to prevent mineral buildup.
• Cleaning : Remove dried flower stalks and damaged leaves with sterile tools. Crop hygiene is very important.
• Propagation : Propagate by dividing the rhizome, separating mature pseudobulbs with healthy roots, in spring.

Bulbophyllum lobbii is ideal for orchid collections, decorative pots, hanging baskets or mounted on bark in terrariums. Its yellow flowers, with purple markings, add an exotic accent to tropical or minimalist decors. It combines well with other epiphytic orchids, such as Phalaenopsis or Dendrobium. They attract pollinators in the natural environment.

Origin

Native to Southeast Asia, including Borneo, Sumatra, Java, the Philippines and Thailand, it grows in low-altitude tropical forests (200–2000 m), on tree trunks and branches. Named after Thomas Lobb, who introduced it to England in 1846, this species is popular in ornamental horticulture.

The ceramic pot is not included in the price.

Note: At the time of listing all specimens have flowers or buds - however these may be lost by the time of delivery. The price is valid for a plant with or without flowers.