Habitat and Ecology
​Bulbophyllum clandestinum (also known by synonyms like B. sessile and B. profusum) is a miniature epiphytic or lithophytic orchid with an enormous native range across the Tropical Old World, spanning from Bangladesh and the Andaman Islands through Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo, Philippines) to the Western Pacific (New Guinea, Fiji). It is primarily found in evergreen lowland forests on terminal branches and twigs in the upper canopy, at elevations usually around 1,000 to 1,200 metres. It thrives in warm, bright, and highly humid conditions, often experiencing heavy dews and mists, but with excellent air circulation.
​Description
​This orchid is a creeping, miniature, sympodial perennial that forms dense, pendulous specimens over time. The species name clandestinum (meaning 'hidden' or 'secret') refers to its small, inconspicuous flowers or its appressed, creeping growth habit. It produces minute, cylindrical pseudobulbs (about 0.5 cm long) that are highly spaced or appressed (pressed flat) to the long, slender, creeping rhizome. Each tiny pseudobulb bears a single, small, fleshy leaf with a blunt or notched tip.
​The flowers are produced singly (or in very short clusters) all along the rhizome, often between the pseudobulbs, which is a key trait. The blooms are very small (about 6 mm wide), typically white or creamy-white with a yellowish lip. The sepals are strongly acuminate (tapering to a point), and the overall flower shape is intricate, though tiny. The plant is remarkably floriferous, producing these small flowers in profusion, often year-round in cultivation.
​Cultivation
​Bulbophyllum clandestinum is an intermediate to warm-growing miniature that requires stable, warm, and humid conditions, making it an excellent candidate for a terrarium, humid cabinet, or bright indoor space in the UK. It needs bright, indirect light; higher light levels generally result in better flowering, but direct sun must be avoided. It is best mounted on cork bark or grown in a very shallow pot using a moisture-retentive but open epiphytic mix (sphagnum moss, fine bark, and perlite). The medium must be kept consistently moist and should not dry out completely.
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 21-27 C (70-81 F)
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A small drop is beneficial, ideally 16-19 C (61-66 F).
​High humidity (60-80%+) and good air circulation are essential. Water frequently (often daily if mounted) with tepid, soft water. Feed lightly during the growing season.
​Unique Features
​This miniature orchid is a favourite among collectors due to its creeping, pendulous growth habit and its incredible floriferousness—it flowers profusely along the entire length of its rhizome, creating a dense, speckled display of tiny white blooms. Its compact form and adaptability to bright indoor conditions make it a rewarding and unique addition to any miniature collection.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: As seen in the picture
​Plant Family: Orchidaceae
​Plant Passport: A Bulbophyllum clandestinum B 140084 C [buyer to use number of the plant label] D GB