Bulbophyllum alagense

Also known as: The Alag River Bulbophyllum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Philippines

General Information

The Alag River Bulbophyllum is a warm to hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Philippines.

Plant Description

Grows to 0.1-2cm. Each new growth has a single oblong shaped leaf that grows to 0.4-2cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.3-0.6cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Fine
• Bark
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 43mm to 262mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in February. Temperature ranges from 20C to 30C, highest in May (22C to 30C) and lowest in January (20C to 26C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

Fertiliser

Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.

Use balanced fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.

Potting

This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots Repotting is best done annually.