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

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