Angraecum

With spectacular white blooms and a sweet scent, this Angraecum offers an elegant display. This species is native to the Comoros Islands and Madagascar. It’s easy to see its similarities with orchid relatives like Darwin’s Orchid, Jumellea, and Oeoniella. All have star-shaped white flowers, and produce rich fragrances at night to attract moth pollinators.

Angraecum flowerAngraecum flowers and plantAngraecum flower

Those moth pollinators have long tongues, so the orchid completes its lure with a drop of nectar at the bottom of a narrow tube called a nectar spur. The flowers have evolved to entice the moth perfectly into position against the sticky yellow pollen. While the moth reaches to receive a nectar reward, it picks up or deposits pollen, and helps the orchid to reproduce.

Angraecum flowersAngraecum flower close upAngraecum flower

This Angraecum has a graceful nectar spur up to 4 inches (10 cm) long, more than twice the size of the flower itself. As they develop, the unopened flower buds are dwarfed by their lengthening spurs. Blooms can last a month or more. Like most of its tropical African relatives, this species requires bright light, warm temps, regular water, and high humidity.

Angraecum flower with long nectar spurAngraecum flowers and leavesAngraecum flower bud with nectar spur

Explore posts in the same categories: Fragrant Orchids, Photos, Warm Growers

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7 Comments on “Angraecum”

  1. Gilberto Says:

    Do you grow all of these orchids yourself? The pcitures are very nice to see, but do you grow them or travel to find them? if you grow them yourself, you’re doing a wonderful job, because they all look so healthy! You must have a very nice greenhouse for all of these orchids. I wish I had a better place to grow orchids here in Florida. Would any of these grow outside here? I am near Miami.

  2. Marc Says:

    I grow many of the orchids in these pictures, including this Angraecum, but I don’t have a greenhouse (I wish!) Other pictures on this blog are taken by Dave or me at orchid shows, botanical gardens, and friends’ gardens.
    This species would probably do well in Miami, but is better suited for an experienced orchid grower. I would recommend starting with Phals, Cattleyas, Dendrobiums, Oncidiums, or Vandas. Some can grow outdoors all year in Miami, but others may need to come inside for winter. You’re lucky to be near the American Orchid Society HQ in Delray Beach. Check them out for expert info about growing orchids in your area, and visit their orchid gardens for inspiration.

  3. Px92 Says:

    Thanks for the great photos!!

  4. java girl Says:

    cool flowers
    thanks

  5. sixtwonine Says:

    Hey, wonderful blog! Keep up the good job!

  6. AV Camille Says:

    intersting how they grow so the moths have to push against the pollen

  7. nancy Says:

    That’s really beautiful. I love the crystal pure white color. Thanks for the post.