Smithsonian Gardens

Common name: The Lilac Bulbophyllum

Family: Orchidaceae subfam. Epidendroideae (Orchid)

Distribution: Bangladesh to Peninsular Malaysia

Habitat: 880m

Life form: Epiphytic

Bloom characteristics: Inflorescence is up to 2-10" long with many flowers that do not open widely. Flower is .25" across.

Bloom Time (northern hemisphere): October to March; peaks from October to November

Medicinal/pharmaceutical: Some studies have shown this orchid to have antimicrobial properties.

Description: The Lilac Bulbophyllum is a medium sized orchid which does not smell of lilac (a fact appreciated by those who do not enjoy the smell of lilacs), but has flowers that become more lilac colored as they age. The flowers are small and do not open fully, but do grow in a lovely pendant.

Comments: Bulbophyllum lilacinum