Bulbophyllum Frostii

If you’re looking for a truly unique orchid that combines striking looks with a surprising scent, you’ve found it. The bulbophyllum frostii is an exotic and fragrant orchid that stands out in any collection.

This isn’t your typical floral-scented bloom. Its flowers are small but intricate, and they carry a fragrance that often sparks conversation. It’s a rewarding plant to grow once you understand its needs.

Let’s look at how to care for this special orchid and enjoy its unusual beauty.

This orchid is native to Southeast Asia, found in countries like Vietnam and Thailand. It grows as an epiphyte in nature, meaning it clings to trees rather than growing in soil.

The plant forms creeping rhizomes that connect small, oval-shaped pseudobulbs. From these, single, leathery leaves emerge. The real magic, however, is in its inflorescence.

Appearance and That Famous Fragrance

The flowers of bulbophyllum frostii are small, typically less than an inch across. They are a deep, reddish-brown or maroon color. The lip is often a contrasting yellow or cream, which creates a beautiful visual effect.

But it’s the scent that defines this plant. The fragrance is often described as:

Strongly of ripe or rotting strawberries.
Some detect a sharp, metallic edge to the smell.
The scent is most potent during the warmer parts of the day.
It’s not a “perfume” smell, but it is fascinating and complex.

Not everyone finds the odor unpleasant; many growers appreciate its unique character. It’s a reminder of the incredible diversity in the orchid family.

Ideal Growing Conditions

To keep your bulbophyllum frostii healthy and encourage blooming, you need to mimic its natural habitat. Getting the basics right is simpler than you might think.

Light Requirements

This orchid prefers bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight it would get under a forest canopy.

Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.
An east-facing window is often perfect.
If using grow lights, provide about 12-14 hours of light daily.

Temperature and Humidity

As a tropical plant, it enjoys warmth and moisture in the air.

Aim for daytime temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C).
Nighttime temps can drop to 60-65°F (15-18°C).
Humidity should be high, ideally 60-80%.

You can raise humidity by placing the pot on a pebble tray with water or using a small room humidifier. Good air movement is also crucial to prevent fungal issues in these humid conditions.

Watering and Feeding

This orchid likes to stay consistently moist but never soggy. The roots should not dry out completely like some other orchids.

Water when the top of the medium just begins to feel dry.
Use lukewarm water, preferably rainwater or distilled water.
Water thoroughly, allowing it to run through the drainage holes.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler, darker winter months.

Fertilize weakly, weekly during the active growing season (spring to fall). Use a balanced orchid fertilizer at 1/4 to 1/2 the recommended strength. Flush the pot with plain water once a month to prevent salt buildup.

Potting and The Right Medium

Because of its creeping growth habit, bulbophyllum frostii is often best grown in a shallow, wide pot or even on a mount. This allows the rhizome to roam naturally.

A suitable potting mix must drain exceptionally well while retaining some moisture. Common mixes include:

Fine-grade fir bark mixed with perlite and sphagnum moss.
New Zealand sphagnum moss alone (requires careful watering).
Tree fern fiber or coconut husk chips are also good options.

Repotting is best done just as new roots begin to emerge from the leading pseudobulbs. This is usually in the spring. Try not to damage the delicate roots during the process.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Even with good care, you might encounter a few issues. Here’s how to handle them.

No Flowers

If your plant isn’t blooming, check these three factors first:

Light: It might not be getting enough bright, indirect light.
Fertilizer: A lack of phosphorus can sometimes inhibit blooming.
Maturity: Young plants need to reach a certain size before they flower.

Pests and Diseases

Watch out for common orchid pests. Spider mites and scale insects can sometimes be a problem, especially in dry air.

Inspect the undersides of leaves regularly.
Treat infestations early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Prevent rot by ensuring excellent drainage and air flow around the plant.

Yellowing leaves can be a sign of to much direct sun or overwatering. Adjust your care routine gradually and see how the plant responds.

Propagation Tips

You can propagate bulbophyllum frostii by division during repotting. Ensure each division has at least three to five healthy pseudobulbs and its own active growth lead.

Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off old medium.
Using a sterile knife, cut the rhizome between pseudobulbs.
Dust the cuts with cinnamon or a fungicide to prevent infection.
Pot each division separately in fresh, appropriate medium.
Keep the new divisions in slightly higher humidity until they establish.

Why Grow This Orchid?

Beyond its intriguing fragrance, bulbophyllum frostii offers a captivating growth form. Its creeping habit is fun to watch as it slowly colonizes its pot or mount. The flowers, while small, are intricate and beautiful upon close inspection.

It’s a conversation piece that showcases the incredible weirdness and wonder of the plant kingdom. For an orchid enthusiast looking to try something different, it’s a perfect choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often does Bulbophyllum frostii bloom?

Typically once a year, often in late summer or fall. A mature, happy plant may sometimes produce multiple flower spikes or bloom more frequently.

Is the smell of the frostii orchid really bad?

“Bad” is subjective. It smells strongly of overripe strawberries, which some people find unpleasant and others find interesting. It’s not a classic floral scent, but it’s not usually overwhelming in a well-ventilated space.

Can I grow this orchid in a terrarium?

Yes, a terrarium can provide the perfect high-humidity environment. Just ensure it’s large enough for the plant’s spreading habit and has excellent air circulation to prevent mold. A small fan can help alot.

What’s the best way to mount a Bulbophyllum frostii?

Use a cork slab or a piece of tree fern. Soak some sphagnum moss and place a thin layer on the mount. Position the plant’s roots on the moss and secure it with fishing line or nylon stockings until the roots attach.

Growing the bulbophyllum frostii is a rewarding experience that connects you to the diverse world of exotic orchids. With its specific but manageable care requirements, it’s a fantastic plant for intermediate growers ready to try something a little out of the ordinary. Pay attention to its need for moisture, humidity, and indirect light, and you’ll be rewarded with its unique and fragrant display.