Angraecum leonis

Angraecum leonis is native to Madagascar and the Comoro Islands, where it typically grows as an epiphyte at elevations from sea level up to 1,200 meters.

Features:

• Monopodial in growth, it reaches 15–20 cm in height, with fan-shaped, fleshy-coriaceous leaves arranged in two ranks (distichous).

• Blooms typically in winter (late fall to winter).

• Inflorescences: from 1 to 7 flowers, axillary, erect or sub-erect.

• Flowers are 3–6 cm wide, star-shaped, waxy white, with a long spur—fragrant at night.

Care Tips:

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal—filtered light works best; avoid harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.

Temperature

Thrives in intermediate to warm ranges:

• Day: ~20–30 °C (68–86 °F)

• Night: Slight drop helps bloom induction.

Humidity & Watering

• Humidity: Optimal range is 60–80%, with good air circulation.

• Watering: Keep evenly moist during growth; allow slight drying during winter to mimic seasonal rest.

Growing Medium & Potting

• Medium: Loose, well-draining bark or sphagnum mix; mounting on cork or tree fern also works.

• Repotting: Every 2–3 years, ideally just after flowering or when new growth starts.

Fertilizer

• Use a balanced orchid fertilizer during active growth; consider high-phosphorus formula before bloom, then balanced nutrients thereafter.

• Flush the medium regularly to prevent salt buildup.

Blooming Encouragement

• Provide bright filtered light, maintain day-night temperature differential, ensure proper hydration during growth and a drier winter rest, and apply phosphorus-rich feeding in autumn.