Aerangis kirkii
Description
Slender epiphyte with wooden stem 10-50 mm long and roots 1-2 mm in diameter. Leaves 2-7, dark to greyish green, spear shaped with the apex being the widest. They are unequally bilobed and up to 150 mm long. Inflorescence one or more lateral, up to 170 mm long and carrying 2-6 flowers. Flowers are white with a pink tinged spur.
Distribution in South Africa
Northern Natal coast.
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Typical habitat
Found in coastal bush and riverine forests, from near sea level to 200m.
Flowering Period
This species typically flowers between January and May.
Distribution elsewhere in Africa
Unknown.
Conservation Status
Very rare and therefore endangered.
All indigenous 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 McFarlane and published 2019-04-26.
Proof read and published by Karsten Wodrich
