FZ.33. Bulbophyllum Thouars

Epiphytic or lithophytic herbs with sympodial growth. Pseudobulbs with 1 node, borne on a creeping rhizome with 1-2(-3) leaves at the apex. Leaves usually thick and fleshy. Inflorescence a raceme or umbel (longiflorum), arising from base of pseudobulb. Rhachis sometimes thickened or flattened. Sepals usually free and subequal, the lateral fused to form an obscure mentum. Lip often much smaller than the sepals, hinged to end of column-foot, usually motile, often fleshy and tongue-like. Pollinia 2 or 4 in two pairs.

Worldwide: 1000 species in the tropics (many in Asia)

Caprivi: 8 cultivated taxa.