Angraecum leonis - The Comet Orchid

Angraecum leonis - The Comet Orchid

Angraecum leonis, also known as the Comet Orchid, is a captivating orchid native to Madagascar and the Comoros Islands. It is prized for its stunning, star-shaped white flower, which emits a beautiful fragrance at night.

Distinctive Features

• Growth Habit: This epiphytic orchid grows on trees, clinging to branches with its thick roots. It has long, slender leaves that can reach up to 30 cm (12 inches) in length.
• Flower: The most striking feature of Angraecum leonis is its single, large, star-shaped white flower. The flower can measure up to 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter and has a long, slender spur that can reach up to 15 cm (6 inches) in length. The flower typically blooms at night and emits a strong, sweet fragrance.
• Night-Blooming: Angraecum leonis is a night-blooming orchid, meaning that its flowers open in the evening and close during the day. This is an adaptation to attract nocturnal pollinators, such as moths.

Care Tips

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.
• Water: Water regularly, keeping the potting media moist but not soggy. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during the winter months.
• Humidity: Maintain moderate to high humidity levels, around 50-70%. You can achieve this by misting the plant regularly or using a humidity tray.
• Temperature: This orchid prefers intermediate to warm temperatures, ideally between 18-28°C (64-82°F) during the day and 13-18°C (55-64°F) at night.
• Potting Media: Use a well-draining orchid potting mix, such as bark or a mixture of bark and sphagnum moss.
• Fertiliser: Fertilise weakly, every other week during the growing season (spring-summer) with a balanced orchid fertiliser.
• Air Circulation: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Additional Notes

• Angraecum leonis is a relatively easy orchid to care for, making it suitable for beginners.
• Its unique star-shaped flower and night-blooming habit make it a fascinating conversation starter.
• This orchid can be grown in pots, baskets, or mounted on cork bark.
• With proper care, Angraecum leonis can bloom reliably for many years.