Bulbophyllum pygmaeum
Piripiri, Pygmy Tree Orchid

PLANT: Epiphytic. Forms a spreading mat to 20cm or more. Pseudobulbs 3 - 5mm across. Becoming wrinkled with age.

LEAVES: Arise from the top of the pseudobulb. Oblong to ovate in shape. 4-10mm long by 2-4mm wide. Upper surface slightly roughened.

FLOWERS: Solitary and tiny, only 2.5mm across. Flower stem arises from the base of the pseudobulb. Creamy-green in colour, with a hairy ovary. Flowers only open briefly.

FLOWERING TIME: December - January.

HABITAT: Coastal to montane well lit lichen covered trunks and branches.
Occasionally seen on rocks.

CONSERVATION STATUS: Not Threatened. Common.

NOTES: Seed capsule splits open during the autumn or winter months, and is often mistaken for the flower, as can be seen in the photo to the left.