Angraecum leonis (Comoros version)

Named after French orchid collector Léon Humblot, Angcm. leonis is a species orchid that exists in two versions; one being from Madagascar, and the other from the Comoro Islands. These are a group of volcanic islands in the Mozambique Channel, an arm of the Indian Ocean lying between Madagascar and the African mainland. The nearest Comoro island is roughly 125 miles away from Madagascar. 

Angcm. leonis is known for it's long lasting, pure white waxy flowers that are strongly fragrant at night, exuding a complex and appealing aroma that combines spicy, sweet, and floral notes, making it a favorite among orchid enthusiasts for both its beauty and its scent. The Comoros version offers larger flowers than its Madagascan relative, with blooms reaching  21/4 - 3 inches wide and about 3 inches high with a nectary/spur of about 3 1/2 inches long. 

There are other distinct differences between these two versions; the Madagascan plant is more compact with thicker, more fleshy leaves, due to their evolution in a more arid climate. Maximum leaf span is about 3.25 inches on mature plants, about half the size of the Comoros version, whose leaves are longer and less fleshy, measuring up to 7 inches on mature plants. Both versions have distinctive sickle-shaped leaves that are fused at the margins, creating a succulent appearance. Leaves are flat and stiff, growing alternately in a fan shape. 

Care:  Angraecum leonis will do well mounted to a cork or a tree fern slab.  During the warmest part of the growing season, the plants must be watered daily with an additional misting later in the afternoon.  This plant likes more water than other Angraecums - if you keep it on the dry side you will start to see puckered or withered leaves. If you see that there are wrinkles forming in the leaves, hydrate the plant several times a day until the wrinkles start to disappear. If the plants have been mounted with any moss around their base, be sure to thoroughly soak the material (it will dry out quickly during the summer heat and with any breeze blowing).

 Plants may be potted or placed in baskets with a fast drain medium.  The roots of plants that have been placed in pots can develop root rot if not allowed to partially dry.  Very often when the leaves start to show wrinkles, it can also spell out the fact that the roots have rotted and the plant is not getting sufficient moisture even if you're watering on a regular basis. Keep an eye on the roots of potted plants.

Currently available in blooming size in 3" pots.