Bulbophyllum maximum is a small “hot-to-warm” growing bifoliate epiphyte (sometimes lithophyte) from tropical Africa, found in open woodlands and riverine forests at 600-2100 m above sea level.
Features:
Small to miniature-sized plant with oblong-to-ovoid pseudobulbs bearing up to three thick, leathery, oblong leaves with rounded, sometimes notched (emarginate) apices.
Blooming occurs in autumn. A mature pseudobulb produces a single, erect basal inflorescence often over 50 cm (≈20 in) in length, bearing many small flowers that open successively along a flattened, leaf-like rachis with dentate edges.
Flowers have a musky scent.
Care Tips:
Light: Bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sunlight that could burn the leaves.
Temperature: Warm to hot daytime temperatures, with a drop at night. Winter night temps should stay above ~65 °F (about 18-19 °C).
Humidity: High humidity is required; aim for ~60% or more. Good air movement helps.
Watering: Keep medium/root environment moist (but not waterlogged). Mounted plants may need more frequent watering. Allow slight drying between waterings but avoid letting the pseudobulbs shrivel.
Potting / Mounting: Use well-draining media or mount on bark/slabs. Because of long rhizomes in some specimens, ensure enough space.
