Bulbophyllum curtisii var. lutescens

Bulbophyllum curtisii var. lutescens

Garay 1999. Section: Cirrhopetalum

This species with flowers arranged in a umbrella or fan shape, is a distinct characteristic of bulbophyllum under the section of cirrhopetalum. The typical color of bulbophyllum curtisii is purplish red, however this particular variety have a unique yellow colour. 

Flower: Close-up view

Bulbophyllum lepidum

 

Bulbophyllum lepidum 

(BI.) J.J.Sm. Section: Cirrhopetalum

This hot growing lowland bulbophyllum species is easy to grow even in a high-rise apartment. Hence, this plant is a very suitable candidate for beginners with tight space constraint. 

There is some variation in the color intensity of the lateral sepal from pink to dark maroon red, depending on their country origin, which ranges from Thailand, Malaysia to Indonesia. This 'fused' sepal act as a landing platform for its pollinator (flies).

The flower emits a distinct foul smell that may put off some growers. However the odor does not deter me from growing the orchid, as I regard it as a distinct characteristic of this genus.