Bulbophyllum smitinandii Seidenf. & Thorut 1996 is an epiphytic growing orchid species native to South Thailand and Vietnam.

The tropical orchid has been named in honour to the Thai botanist and orchid researcher Dr.Tem Smitinand (1920-1995). The spectacular flowers reach a sizeof up to about 5 cm in diameter. Flowering time: April - May. Bulbophyllum smitinandii orchids require a warm to hot, humid climate and a good air movement to avoid root rot. The potting medium should be humid, but not wet and shouldn`t be allowed to dry out completely during the growth season. Waterings should be restricted during the winter rest. Bulbophyllum smitinandii belongs to the Bulbophyllum Section Sestochilus (Breda) Benth & Hook.f. 1883, which is characterized by single flowered inflorescences. Prominent representatives of the Sestochilus section are Bulbophyllum lobbi, Bulbophyllum patens, Bulbophyllum facetum, Bulbophyllum dearei and Bulbophyllum claptonense.

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Image: Bulbophyllum smitinandii Seidenf. & Thorut 1996
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee