Angraecum distichum

Angraecum distichum is distributed across sub-Saharan tropical Africa, from Sierra Leone to Uganda and Angola. It thrives in wet tropical forests at elevations between 200 and 1,600 meters. This slow-growing miniature orchid is either epiphytic or lithophytic, and is characterized by flat, distichous (two-ranked) leaves arranged in a braided, chain-like fashion.

Features:

• Foliage: Bright green, triangular or oblong-elliptic, succulent leaves forming attractive spreading mats or clumps over time.

• Flowers: Tiny (~6 mm / ¼ inch), pure white, fragrant blossoms appear singly from leaf axils throughout the year on mature clumps.

Care Tips:

Light

Thrives in low to moderate indirect light, similar to conditions for Phalaenopsis. Morning or late afternoon sun is generally acceptable, but avoid harsh midday rays to prevent leaf burn.

Temperature

Prefers warm-intermediate conditions: Daytime 18–24 °C (65–75 °F), occasionally up to 28 °C (82 °F); Nighttime 13–18 °C (55–65 °F). A drop of ~5 °C between day and night is ideal.

Watering & Humidity

• Water: Keep the growing medium moist but ensure good drainage—avoid waterlogging. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.

• Humidity: Prefers high humidity; aim for 60–80% to mimic its natural rainforest habitat.

Potting & Mounting

• Medium: Performs well mounted (on cork or tree fern) or in a pot with fine bark, perlite, charcoal, or sphagnum—something airy and durable.

• Repotting: This species dislikes root disturbance. If repotting, do so just after flowering or when needed, minimizing root movement.

Fertilization

Use a balanced orchid fertilizer sparingly—about once a month during active growth.