Aerangis verdickii

• Aeranges verdickii by Lourens Grobler

Description

Robust epiphyte, with a woody stem up to 40 mm long. Leaves strap-shaped and often fleshy, widest at their ends and narrowing towards their base and unequally bilobed. One or more lateral inflorescences of up to 200 mm length, carrying 4-12 flowers. Flowers are white with a cream to ivory spur. Plants in Zimbabwe have been observed to shed their leaves in winter during the dry season.

Distribution in South Africa

Only found in Limpopo Province in the vicinity of Tzaneen.  

 
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Typical habitat

Very local in dry woodland and montane forests from 600-900m. 

Flowering Period

This species typically flowers between December and January.

Distribution elsewhere in Africa

Widespread in tropical Africa north of South Africa.  

Conservation Status

Does not appear to be 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 Mc Farlane and published 2019-04-26.
Proof read and published by Karsten Wodrich

Images

• Aeranges verdickii by Lourens Grobler