Bulbophyllum graveolens J.J. Sm. 1912 is a very large, epiphtic growing orchid species, native to the rainforests of New Guinea.

The British botanist Robert Allen Rolfe categorised this spectacular, big orchid as Cirrhopetalum robustum Rolfe 1893, in the year 1912 the Dutch botanist Johannes Jacobus Smith recategorised it as Bulbophyllum graveolens J.J. Sm. 1912. The strange looking, long-lasting flowers reach a lenghth of about 8 cm. While the flowers have a quite outstanding look, they also have an extraordinary, but quite unpleasant smell like urine, which attracts flies. Flowering season. Summer. Bulbophyllum graveolens orchids are protected by CITES Appendix II (trade controlled to avoid use incompatible with species survival). The tropical orchid requires a hot and humid climate and a location in partial shade. Plants should always kept moist, but not wet and need a good air movement to avoid fungal infection. During the winter rest waterings should be restricted, but the potting medium should never dry out completely.

Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Bulbophyllum graveolens J.J. Sm. 1912 (Cirrhopetalum robustum Rolfe 1893)
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee

Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Bulbophyllum graveolens buds (Cirrhopetalum robustum)
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee