Brachionidium
Brachionidium
Brachionidium, commonly known as the cup orchid, is a genus of approximately 72 orchid species native to tropical America. Its name, derived from Greek for "little arm," references distinctive protrusions on its stigma. These orchids are found across Central America, the West Indies, and South America, extending as far south as Brazil and Bolivia.
Key Facts
- ›The genus Brachionidium comprises about 72 recognized species.
- ›It is widely distributed throughout tropical America, including Central America, the West Indies, and South America.
- ›The name "Brachionidium" originates from Greek and means "little arm," referring to the stigma's features.
- ›The genus is also known by the common name "cup orchid."
- ›Species within this genus are found as far south as Brazil and Bolivia.

Cup Orchid
About Brachionidium
Brachionidium (Cup Orchid)
Brachionidium is a genus of orchids, numbering approximately 72 recognized species. Commonly known as the cup orchid, this genus is widespread throughout the diverse tropical regions of the Americas. Its native range extends across Central America, the islands of the West Indies, and into South America, with species found as far south as Brazil and Bolivia.
The genus name, Brachionidium, is derived from Greek words that translate to "little arm." This nomenclature specifically refers to the distinctive protrusions observed on the stigma of these orchids, a key characteristic for their identification.
While the provided information details the genus's taxonomic scope and geographic distribution, specific details regarding individual species' growth habits, flower morphology, or cultivation requirements are not elaborated upon within this record.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Brachionidium?
Brachionidium is a genus of orchids, commonly referred to as cup orchids. It encompasses around 72 species.
Where are Brachionidium orchids found?
These orchids are native to tropical America. Their distribution spans Central America, the West Indies, and South America, reaching as far south as Brazil and Bolivia.
What does the name Brachionidium mean?
The generic name Brachionidium comes from Greek words meaning "little arm." This name is a reference to the characteristic protrusions found on the stigma of these orchids.
Related Orchid species
Eurystyles
Eurystyles is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the orchid family, Orchidaceae. These orchids are native to various regions across South America, Central America, the West Indies, and Chiapas. The genus is characterized by its specific growth habits and is recognized by botanical authorities with a number of accepted species.
Corymborkis
Corymborkis is a genus of terrestrial orchids found across tropical regions worldwide. These evergreen plants are known for their leafy stems, pleated leaves, and widely-opening flowers, which are typically greenish-white and arranged in crowded clusters. The genus name itself reflects the characteristic bunched arrangement of their blooms.
Beloglottis
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