Bulbophyllum jingdongense

Bulbophyllum jingdongense is a species of orchid belonging to the Cirrhopetalum alliance within the Bulbophyllum genus. It was formally introduced in 2017 and is native to the subtropical regions of southern China and central Laos. This orchid is very small, making it perfect for terrariums where space and humidity can be carefully controlled.

Features:

• Growth Habit: This species is an epiphytic herb with a creeping rhizome approximately 1 mm in diameter. Pseudobulbs are spaced 2–10 mm apart, compressed subglobose, 6–7 mm tall, and 8–10 mm in diameter. Each pseudobulb supports a single leathery, elliptic leaf measuring 10–14 × 8–12 mm. The leaf's upper surface is dark green and concave, while the underside is reddish-purple and convex.

• Inflorescence: The plant produces a sub-umbellate inflorescence arising from the base of the terminal pseudobulb, typically bearing 4–6 flowers. The peduncle is 9–11 mm long, with membranous sheaths at the base. Floral bracts are lanceolate, 4–5 × 1–1.2 mm, with acuminate tips.

• Flowers: The column is pale yellow with a pinkish apex, approximately 2 mm long. Notably, it features a prominent, ellipsoid, orange-yellow gland beneath the stigma. The stelidia are well-developed, 2.5–3 mm long, basally truncate, acuminate, and merge with the column wings at the apex.

Care Tips:

• Temperature: Prefers cool to warm conditions.

• Light: Thrives in partial shade.

• Watering: Requires moist conditions but should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings.

• Humidity: High humidity levels, ranging from 60% to 80%, are essential, making it ideal for terrariums.

• Mounting: Due to its epiphytic nature, mounting the plant on a piece of cork bark or in a shallow basket with sphagnum moss can mimic its natural habitat and promote healthy growth.