About
Angraecum eburneum is a sizable to giant epiphytic orchid that typically establishes its roots on the bark of large tree branches within the tropical forests of East Africa. As it matures, it develops upright, branching stems that support two rows of stiff, fleshy, glossy leaves, which create a fan-like formation. Flowering occurs in early winter, with a stem that can reach up to 120 cm in length, showcasing 10 to 15 durable, waxy flowers that are predominantly white and green, measuring up to 7.5 cm in diameter. Each bloom features a green spur-like nectary and emits a fragrance reminiscent of gardenias during the night.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1A
Plant details
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants
- Native to
- E Tropical Africa
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in an open, well-drained but moisture-retentive mix of medium to coarse orchid bark, sphagnum moss and perlite. Shallow, wide pots or baskets are best used to accommodate its spreading habit. Bright filtered light is best as direct sunlight through glass can scorch its leaves. Prefers a minimum night temperature of 15°C and a maximum of 30°C in the daytime. Night time temperatures should be 10°C lower than daytime temperatures for good growth and is beneficial to induce flowering. High humidity is required along with gentle air movement. Allow plants to freely drain when watering and avoid plants sitting in water as this can cause roots to rot. Plants may be intolerant of hard municipal tap water, so irrigate with rainwater at room temperature. Orchid fertiliser can be applied regularly throughout the growing season, March to September. Reduce watering and feeding in winter months See indoor orchid cultivation for further advice
- Pruning
- No pruning required apart from the removal of faded flowers
- Propagation
- Propagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants that have produced multiple stems may be divided when the plant overgrows its container. Use a sterilized blade and ensure divisions have their own roots
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects infestations
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease free