Angraecum eburneum
comet orchid
A large to giant growing epiphytic orchid, rooting along the bark of large branches of trees in tropical east African forests. Forming upright, but branching stems when mature, furnished with two rows of stiff, fleshy, shiny, strap-shaped evergreen leaves forming a fan-like appearance, . A flower stem up to 120cm long, bearing 10 to 15 long-lasting waxy, white and green flowers, to 7.5cm across, each with a green spur-like nectary and a night-time gardenia scent, is produced in early winter

Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green White | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1ABotanical details
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Spreading branched
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- E Tropical Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in an open, well-drained but moisture-retentive mix of medium to coarse orchid bark, sphagnum moss and perlite. Shallow, wide pots or baskets are best used to accommodate its spreading habit. Bright filtered light is best as direct sunlight through glass can scorch its leaves. Prefers a minimum night temperature of 15°C and a maximum of 30°C in the daytime. Night time temperatures should be 10°C lower than daytime temperatures for good growth and is beneficial to induce flowering. High humidity is required along with gentle air movement. Allow plants to freely drain when watering and avoid plants sitting in water as this can cause roots to rot. Plants may be intolerant of hard municipal tap water, so irrigate with rainwater at room temperature. Orchid fertiliser can be applied regularly throughout the growing season, March to September. Reduce watering and feeding in winter months See indoor orchid cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants that have produced multiple stems may be divided when the plant overgrows its container. Use a sterilized blade and ensure divisions have their own roots
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required apart from the removal of faded flowers
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects infestations
Diseases
Generally disease free
Get involved
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