Description
Aeranthes grandiflora (also called Grand Aeranthes, among many other common names) is a species of orchid native to Madagascar. It grows in moist, shady areas, such as cloud forests. It has long, thin leaves and a single, long stem that produces a single, large, white flower.
Uses & Benefits
Aeranthes grandiflora is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a source of food for livestock. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat fever, headaches, and other ailments.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Flower: large, white, with a yellow centre. Seed: small, brown, and oval-shaped. Seedlings: long and thin, with a single, long, narrow leaf.
Cultivation and Propagation
Aeranthes grandiflora can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds should be sown in a cold frame in the spring or autumn. When large enough to handle, seedlings should be potted up into individual pots and grown on in a cold frame for their first winter. Division in spring or autumn. Larger clumps can be divided with a spade.