Fauna
Plant · GBIF taxon 2846281

Bulbophyllum cocoinum

Bulbophyllum cocoinum

Also known as Coconut Bulbophyllum

Bulbophyllum cocoinum perches high in the canopies of West and Central African rainforests, anchoring its four-angled pseudobulbs to mossy tree branches. Arching, densely packed inflorescences emerge from the base of mature pseudobulbs, producing bottlebrush-like sprays of miniature, translucent white to pale pink flowers. The blossoms release a subtle, sweet coconut-like scent to lure small pollinating flies into their hinged labella.

EpiphyticFloweringFragrant
Bulbophyllum cocoinum reference
Licensed referenceMiss Drake (1803-1857) del., J. Watts sc. / Public domain · cc0
—observations
—countries
—peak records
VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Autotrophic (photosynthetic)
Predators
  • Herbivorous insects
  • Slugs
  • Snails
ThreatsDeforestation, logging of host trees, and illegal wild collection
HabitatsTropical lowland rainforests and submontane evergreen forests
Life spanPerennial (several decades)
Classification
  1. FamilyOrchidaceae
  2. SpeciesBulbophyllum cocoinum
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
What to notice
Recognized by clustered, sharply four-angled pseudobulbs bearing single leathery leaves and dense racemes of tiny whitish flowers.
Support conservation
Do not detach plants from tree trunks or disturb surrounding epiphyte communities.
Responsible observation
  • Canopy Observation: Bring binoculars to study blooming clusters high up in the forks of mature rainforest trees.
  • Fragrance Detection: Check flowers around midday when warmth enhances the faint coconut-like scent.
  • Conservation Stewardship: Leave wild orchids attached to their host trees to avoid contributing to illegal trade.
Related species
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