Taxon

Bulbophyllum medusae

 
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Bulbophyllum medusae - Medusa's Bulbophyllum, Medusa's Head Fly Orchid
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Common name: Medusa's Bulbophyllum, Medusa's Head Fly Orchid
Family: Orchidaceae subfam. Epidendroideae
Synonym: Cirrhopetalum medusae
Distribution: Peninsular Thailand to W Malesia
Habitat: Lowland forests; 0-1300ft (0-400m)
Life form: Epiphytic
Fragrance: Fungus-like, lasts for a short time
Bloom characteristics: Arching inflorescence is 6-10" (15-25 cm) long with a cluster of 15-30 white flowers. Flower is up to 6" (15 cm) long and lasts about a week.
Bloom Time (northern hemisphere): August-March; peaks in November
Plant size: 5-8" x 1-2" (13-20 x 2.5-5 cm), excluding inflorescence
Pollination syndrome: Flies
Description: This small orchid is named for its flowers, which some think look like many snakes coming out of a head, like the character Medusa from Greek mythology. Others think the flowers look like an explosion of fireworks. Whether celebratory or dangerous, these flowers certainly are enchanting.
Comments: Bulbophyllum medusae
Links: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia • Kew World Checklist of Selected Plant Families

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