Bulbophyllum minutissimum

Also known as: The Smallest Bulbophyllum or Phyllorkis minutissima Dendrobium nummulifolium The Red Bead Orchid in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: New South Wales - Australia Queensland - Australia

General Information

The Smallest Bulbophyllum is an orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Australia.

Plant Description

Each new growth has a single leaf that grows to 0.1cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.2-0.3cm

Flowers

A single short lasting blossom appears

Substrate(s)

• Bark
• Sand

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 71mm to 135mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in April. Humidity ranges from 61% to 70%, highest in October and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 8C to 26C, highest in July (18C to 26C) and lowest in January (8C to 16C).

Watering

These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.

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 to Cork slabs.