Tongue Orchid

Tongue Orchid Care

Bulbophyllum fletcherianum

Other names: Fletcher's Bulbophyllum, Spies Bulbophyllum

What is the plant

The Tongue Orchid is an exotic and one-of-a-kind flower that will add beauty to any home. It is simple to care for and requires little upkeep.

The Tongue Orchid (Bulbophyllum fletcherianum) is a remarkable and exotic orchid that brings a touch of uniqueness to any space. Its standout feature is its tongue-shaped flower petals, which set it apart. Typically, these petals sport a rich, dark red hue, contrasting beautifully with the deep green leaves.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

18°C - 20°C

Hardiness zone

10 - 13

Difficulty

Medium

Hibernation

Cold Period

How to Care for the Plant

Water
The key to watering your Orchid is to do so when the soil feels dry, typically every 7 to 10 days. Avoid overdoing it; excessively soggy soil can lead to root rot, which we definitely want to avoid.
Pruning
Bulbophyllum fletcherianum should be pruned in early spring, just before new growth appears. Remove any dead or diseased growth, as well as any weak stems.
Fertilizer
Think of feeding your Orchid like providing it with a well-balanced diet. During the active growing season in spring and summer, offer a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer every two weeks. But remember, don't go overboard with nitrogen; too much of it can harm the roots.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
Tongue Orchid requires indirect, bright light. It is essential to avoid direct sunlight, as it can lead to leaf burn.
Soil
For this Orchid, sandy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 is the ticket. It should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A recommended potting mix might include peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite.
Propagation
This Orchid can be propagated easily by division or stem cuttings. Divide the plant into several sections and replant in separate containers to propagate through division. Take a stem cutting with at least two nodes and plant it in a small container with moist soil to propagate through stem cuttings.

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Temperature
Maintaining the right temperature is key. Keep your Orchid in an environment that ranges from 70-90°F (21-32°C). Steer clear of temperature extremes, whether they're too hot or too cold, as they can harm your plant.
Container
When choosing a container for your Tongue Orchid, think wide and shallow, and don't forget those drainage holes. This design helps maintain proper soil moisture and prevents the dreaded root rot. Plus, many orchids, including this one, appreciate bottom watering, making a shallow pot an even better choice.
Fun fact
Interestingly, this Orchid was first discovered in the 1950s and hailed from the lush tropical forests of New Guinea.