Habitat:
Bulbophyllum freitagii is native to Papua New Guinea, where it grows as an epiphyte in lower montane forests at elevations ranging from 900 to 1800 metres. It is typically found clinging to mossy branches and tree trunks in humid, shaded forest interiors. These forests are characterised by high rainfall, steady humidity, and cool to intermediate temperatures, providing an ideal microclimate for this orchid. It shares its habitat with a variety of other epiphytes, including ferns, mosses, and other orchid species. Described in 2019.
Description:
Bulbophyllum freitagii is a small to medium-sized epiphyte with creeping rhizomes that produce well-spaced, ovoid pseudobulbs measuring about 1–2.5 cm long. Each pseudobulb supports a single, apical, coriaceous leaf that is elliptic to oblong, measuring up to 6 cm in length and 2 cm in width. The inflorescence emerges from the base of the pseudobulb and is erect to arching, typically 6–10 cm long, bearing a single flower. The flower is approximately 2.5 cm wide, with narrow, pointed sepals and petals in shades of pale green to yellowish cream, sometimes flushed with reddish or brown tones. The lip is distinctive—movable and dark-colored, often purplish or maroon, contrasting with the rest of the flower. Resembling Bulbophyllum diplohelix it differs by the lateral sepals which are not tightly twisted and by small features onthe lip such as the placement of trichomes.
Cultivation:
Bulbophyllum freitagii thrives in intermediate conditions with daytime temperatures of 20°C to 26°C and nighttime temperatures of 12°C to 16°C. It requires high humidity (above 75%) and excellent air circulation. The plant prefers bright, filtered light and should be grown in a slightly acidic medium (pH 5.5–6.0). It does well mounted on cork or tree fern or in small baskets using fine bark mixed with sphagnum moss. Water frequently using rainwater or distilled water, keeping the substrate evenly moist. Fertilise lightly every two weeks during the growing season with a diluted balanced orchid fertiliser.
Specifications:
Plant Size: Young plants about two years from flowering
Plant Family: Orchidaceae
Plant Passport: Bulbophyllum freitagii B 140084 C 14182 D GB
