Bulbophyllum lobbii var. siamense

Bulbophyllum lobbii var. siamense is a variety native to Thailand, distinguished from the typical form by its distribution and slightly different floral colouring. The plant produces ovoid pseudobulbs along a creeping rhizome, each carrying a single broad leaf. Inflorescences bear a single large flower, usually bright yellow to orange with contrasting red or brown markings. The hinged lip is sensitive to touch and adapted for fly pollination. Like other forms of B. lobbii, it is prized in cultivation for its bold, long-lasting flowers and ease of culture compared to many in the genus.

Care Tips

• Light: Provide shaded to moderately bright, indirect light.
• Water: Keep evenly moist during active growth, allowing a slight drying between waterings in winter.
• Media: Suited to mounting on cork or tree fern, or growing in a coarse orchid mix with sphagnum to hold some moisture.
• Fertiliser: Apply dilute orchid fertiliser regularly during the growing season.
• Temperature: Thrives in warm to intermediate conditions, ideally 18–28 °C, with good humidity.
• Air circulation: Needs steady airflow to prevent fungal or bacterial problems around the flowers.
• Repotting: Refresh the medium or remount every 2–3 years to maintain healthy roots and rhizome spread.