Bulbophyllum sikkimense (AKA Bulbophyllum Roxburghii)

Bulbophyllum sikkimense (AKA Bulbophyllum Roxburghii) is a miniature epiphytic orchid native to the eastern Himalayas, including Sikkim, Bhutan, and northeastern India. It thrives in warm, humid tropical jungles at elevations ranging from 250 to 850 meters, making it well-suited for terrariums where humidity and temperature can be easily controlled.

Features:

• Size: This species is a mini-miniature epiphyte, reaching a height of up to 6 cm.

• Pseudobulbs: Small, squat, ovate pseudobulbs measuring 0.8–1.0 cm in length.

• Leaves: Each pseudobulb supports a single, fleshy, oval-lanceolate leaf that is 4–5 cm long and 1.5–1.8 cm wide.

• Flowers: In spring, it produces an erect, basal inflorescence approximately 5 cm long, bearing 10 to 12 umbellate flowers. The flowers are about 1.5 cm long, yellowish with reddish-brown spots. The lip features a small, triangular, concave spine flap with a sharp tip and hairy edges.

Care Tips:

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.

• Temperature: Maintain daytime temperatures between 20°C and 25°C, with nighttime temperatures around 18°C or below. A cooling period of about 4 weeks at temperatures below 15°C in winter can encourage better flowering.

• Humidity: High humidity is essential. Aim for levels between 60% and 80% to replicate its native environment.

• Watering: Keep the medium evenly moist during the growing season. In winter, reduce watering, allowing the plant to dry slightly between waterings.

• Air Circulation: Ensure good air movement to prevent fungal diseases and to mimic the natural breezes of its native habitat.

• Potting Medium: Use a well-draining mix such as sphagnum moss, fine orchid bark, or a combination thereof.

• Mounting: Many growers mount this species on cork or tree fern slabs, as it naturally grows on tree trunks.