cirrhopetalum

The representatives of this genus were excluded from the extensive and diverse Bulbophyllum genus . The reasons that led to this were not so much scientific as related to gardening and cultivation . The only significant feature that the species of the genus Cirrhopetalum are distinguished by is the apperance of their inflorescence : the tiny flowers are arranged in characteristic , usually overhanging heads or umbels . Over 60 species have already been discribed,most of which are among the attractive petite or miniature orchids that are popular with cultivators. Small,egg-shaped pseudobulbs grow at a certain distance from each other on a trailing rhizome and bear only one leaf each . The morphology of the flowers is very diverse: the tepals assume different sizes and shapes . The lip is sometimes curiously movable-thanks to a thin connection with the base of the flower. Cultivation has no special requirements ,as these rather light-loving plants can thrive even in small cultivating equipment . Round-the -year moisture and warmth are a guarantee of a good development of the new pseudobulbs. The plants usually bloom between the fall and spring , but since they grow continuously ,they can bloom at other times as well. The best -known and most oftern cultivated species is C.medusae. The genus has a large geographical range that includes esatern Africa ,Madagascar,Asia ,New Guinea and New Caledonia.