Name: Bulbophyllum lobbii
Origin: Southeast Asia – widespread from Myanmar to Indonesia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo, Sumatra, and the Philippines
First described: 1847 by John Lindley
Etymology:

The species was named in honor of Thomas Lobb, a British plant hunter who discovered it in Java in the 19th century and brought it to Europe.

Synonyms:
Sarcopodium lobbii
Phyllorkis lobbii (Lindl.) Kuntze (1891)

Bulbophyllum claptonense, B. sumatranum, B. siamense (according to some sources)

Description:

Bulbophyllum lobbii is a fascinating orchid with sturdy, rounded pseudobulbs and just one single, firm leaf per growth. The plant prefers to grow epiphytically in humid tropical forests and produces elegant, slightly curved inflorescences with a striking solitary flower.

The flowers reach 7 to 10 cm in size and are impressive for their vivid colors: often golden yellow with reddish-brown accents or mahogany-colored markings on the lip. Depending on the clone and location, they may also have fragrances ranging from sweet to slightly spicy. Flowering can occur several times a year, especially in the warmer months.

Care Instructions:

This species prefers bright but indirect light and warm temperatures between 18 and 28 °C. High humidity (60–80 %) and good air circulation are essential for healthy growth. The substrate should be loose and well-draining—a bark mix or mounting on cork is ideal. Keep it evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. During the active growth phase, a weakly diluted orchid fertilizer can be applied every two weeks.

Special feature:

Bulbophyllum lobbii is one of the most popular species in the genus thanks to its exceptionally large, distinctive flowers. Its combination of exotic appeal, easy care, and regular flowering makes it an ideal choice for collectors and lovers of tropical orchids—both in a display case and mounted as an eye-catching decorative feature.