About
Angraecum sororium is a cool-growing orchid that develops clumps of erect stems adorned with two rows of rigid, strap-like green leaves. This species thrives in its native environment of central Madagascar, where it is typically found among boulders, rocks, and decaying leaf matter in highland areas. While it often enjoys nearly full sunlight, its growth is supplemented by the frequent presence of fog and mist. From January to March, the plant produces up to four waxy, moderately long-lasting white flowers, each featuring a green spur-like nectary, and emits a spicy fragrance at night.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Clump forming, Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Native to
- Central highlands of Madagascar
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in an open, well drained but moisture-retentive mix which can include, lava rock or pumice, fine fir bark and leafmold or chopped sphagnum moss. Provide the brightest light possible without risking scorching the plant’s leaves. Prefers a minimum night temperature of 12°C and a maximum of 25°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 good 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 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