Keekee Bulbophyllum
bulbophyllum keekee
Also known as: []
Overview
A rare epiphytic orchid species native to tropical regions, known for its unique pendulous flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Bulbophyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Bulbophyllum keekee |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite and sphagnum moss for aeration and moisture retention.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when pseudobulbs die back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on removing non-viable parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually, protect from intense midday sun, and place in east-facing windows for optimal indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
filtered light or partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light, use sheer curtains to filter direct sun, adjust placement seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a well-aerated mix, avoid heavy soils, and refresh medium every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–80°F (15–27°C); prefers stable temperatures with slight drop at night.
Avoid drafts, maintain stable temperatures, and protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent salt buildup, flush periodically with plain water, and avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs or rhizome cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate healthy pseudobulbs, ensure each division has roots, pot in fresh medium, water lightly, and maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for division, but rooting hormone can aid rhizome cuttings.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, sterilized scissors, pots, and rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Ensure divisions have at least one pseudobulb and roots, maintain high humidity, and avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut spent flower spikes at the base and remove dead pseudobulbs carefully.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing pseudobulbs and spent flower spikes to redirect energy to new growth.
Tools
Sterilized pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Identify dead parts, sterilize tools, make clean cuts, and dispose of removed material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by one inch in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove old medium, trim dead roots, repot in fresh orchid mix, and ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the medium breaks down; necessary to refresh nutrients and improve drainage.
Checklist
Prepare new medium, inspect roots, trim as needed, pot securely, and water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, allow water to saturate the medium, ensure excess drains away, and water in the morning to prevent fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite for drainage, incorporate orchid bark for aeration, and use sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf damage, and may lead to root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid overwatering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and ensure adequate ventilation to cool the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, flush occasionally, adjust for dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBulbophyllum keekee is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant has not been reported to cause any harmful physiological effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBulbophyllum keekee is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects resulting from ingestion or contact with this orchid species.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBulbophyllum keekee is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant has not been documented to cause any adverse physiological effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Bulbophyllum keekee?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the medium to dry slightly between waterings, typically every 7–10 days depending on humidity and temperature.
Q: Does Bulbophyllum keekee require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural epiphytic habitat.
Q: Can Bulbophyllum keekee be grown outdoors?
A: It is best suited for indoor cultivation in temperate climates, though it can be grown outdoors in warm, humid, shaded environments.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | filtered light or partial shad |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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