SafePlants

Brachionidium ciliolatum - Hairy Cup Orchid

Brachionidium ciliolatum, commonly known as the Hairy Cup Orchid, is a fascinating member of the orchid family.

Considerations for Pets

• This orchid may have hairy leaves and flowers, which could be a texture some animals find interesting to chew on.

Considerations for Children

• The leaves of this plant release a ginger odor when rubbed or crushed.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Brachionidium ciliolatum Garay
• Common Name: Hairy Cup Orchid, Little Cup Orchid, Sherring's cup orchid
• Order: Asparagales, Orchidales
• Family: Orchidaceae
• Genus: Brachionidium Lindl.
• Species: Brachionidium ciliolatum Garay
• Synonyms: Brachionidium is also simply known as Cup Orchid.
• Related Species: Brachionidium sherringii Rolfe, Brachionidium condorense L.Jost, Brachionidium cruziae L.O., Brachionidium parvum

Morphological Characteristics

• Brachionidium ciliolatum is a forb/herb, meaning it's a non-woody plant that isn't a grass.
• It features hairy cup-shaped brown-purple flowers.
• The leaves are kidney-shaped.
• Aerial roots arising on stems or pseudobulbs and growing in the air are often prominent.

Quirky Facts

• Crushing or rubbing the leaves releases a ginger odor.

Flowering and Blooms

• Flowering occurs in spring and summer.

Ecology and Habitat

• Brachionidium ciliolatum is an epiphyte.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant's flowers can sometimes attract insects, as indicated by the mention of a bee in an orchid's cup.

Resources and Further Information

• Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Brachionidium ciliolatum.
• Dave's Garden offers a friendly community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.