Name: Bulbophyllum lepidum (Blume) J.J.Sm.

Synonyms: Ephippium lepidum Blume; Cirrhopetalum lepidum (Blume) Schltr.; Bulbophyllum flabellum-veneris (J.Koenig) Aver.; Bulbophyllum gamosepalum (Griff.) J.J.Sm.; Bulbophyllum viscidum J.J.Sm.

Etymology: The genus name Bulbophyllum is composed of the Greek words bolbos, meaning “bulb,” and phyllon, meaning “leaf,” and refers to the pseudobulbs, each of which produces a leaf. The Latin specific epithet lepidum means “dainty,” “pretty,” or “graceful.”

First description: The currently accepted combination was published in 1905 by Johannes Jacobus Smith in Die Orchideen von Java, page 471; the basionym was described by Carl Ludwig Blume in 1825.

Origin/Distribution: From Indochina and Hainan to western and central Malesia, including Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaya, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, and the Philippines.

Location/Habitat: A pseudobulbous epiphyte of humid tropical forests. We recommend bright, filtered light, high humidity, and good air movement. The species grows under intermediate to warm conditions at about 18–28 °C. The medium should be airy and slightly moisture-retentive; the roots should be allowed to dry only briefly on the surface between waterings.

Description and notes: The compact plant produces creeping rhizomes with pseudobulbs that are closely to moderately spaced, each bearing a firm leaf. The fan- to umbrella-shaped flowers are particularly striking, with narrow segments often marked in purplish red to yellowish hues. We grow the species in fine to medium-grade bark with some moisture-retentive material, or mounted on a support that can be watered regularly. Consistent moisture, light fertilization, and good ventilation encourage strong new growth; waterlogging and prolonged drying should be avoided.