Aerangis somalensis
- Aerangis somalensis by Oskar Kurze
Description
Fairly robust epiphyte with woody stem up to 15 mm long. Two to six leaves, spear-shaped, often with wavy edges, deeply and almost equally bilobed and grey-green in colour. One to several lateral inflorescences, up to 200mm long and carrying 4-17 flowers which are white. Spur slender, up to 120mm long. Similar to A. mystacidii but has a longer spur.
Distribution in South Africa
Only known from Limpopo Province.
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Typical habitat
Found in riverine forests, from 600 to 1200m.
Flowering Period
This species typically flowers between February and May.
Distribution elsewhere in Africa
Very widespread throughout tropical Africa, as far north as Ethiopia and Somalia, but appears absent from Mozambique and Zambia.
Conservation Status
Considered rare.
All orchids are protected under local South African legislation as well as CITES regulations.
References and additional information
Johnson, S.D., Bytebier, B., Stärker, H. (2010). Orchids of South Africa: A field guide. Struik Nature, Cape Town, South Africa.
La Croix, I.F., la Croix, E. (1997). African Orchids in the Wild and in Cultivation. Timber Press, Portland, Oregon, USA.
This genus and species article was written by Duncan Mc Farlane and published 2019-04-26.
Proof read and published by Karsten Wodrich
Images
- Aerangis somalensis by Oskar Kurze
