Bulbophyllum beccarii

Also known as: Beccari's Bulbophyllum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

Beccari's Bulbophyllum is a hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. It is named after the Italian Orchid Enthusiast in the 19th century.

Plant Description

Grows to 20-60cm. Each new growth has numerous elliptic leaves that grow to 20-60cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 5cm

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Autumn

Blooming Season

• Autumn

Substrate(s)

• Spaghnum Moss

Care Notes

These orchids have a fine root system that can quickly die back if left dry for too long, but also does not like to be kept wet, so water regularly but ensure that the mix is dry before watering. 

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 175mm to 688mm per day, heaviest in January and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 82% to 89%, highest in January and lowest in July. Temperature ranges from 20C to 31C, highest in August (21C to 31C) and lowest in January (20C to 29C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

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. 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

Due to the growth nature of these plants they are best mounted onto cork, tree fern slabs, or even trees if the climate suits. Water regularly especially in hot weather.

This plant does well mounted.