Related to the smaller-growing Aerangis are the lovely angraecums. These superb epiphytic, lithophytic or terrestrial orchids come from all over southern Africa and Madagascar.
The monopodial plants vary in size, and, of the 200 or so species, many can be found in cultivation. Among the smallest is Angraecum distichum, a dwarf plant with plaited (braided), herringbonelike foliage, whose oval leaves overlap along a curving rhizome, which rarely exceeds 15cm (Gin) in length. The minute flowers (5mm/Yin wide) are produced singly all over the plant, to resemble stars in a night sky. The giants of the genus include the magnificent A. sesquipedale.
All the plants are evergreen and epiphytic, some of the barbigerum smaller species being known as “twig epiphytes” because they cling to the very extremities of the smallest branches. Bulbophyllums are widely distributed throughout South-east Asia as well as Africa, Australia and tropical America. They must be regarded as one of the most successful genera among the orchids.
If you cannot recognize one orchid from a display at an orchid event, the chances are that it is a Bulbophyllum. Try some of the smaller plants indoors, where they will do well in pots, baskets or on bark. The smaller species will grow with great vigour, multiplying their pseudobulbs each year until a large specimen plant is built up. When placed in a hanging basket, the plants can grow into huge leafy balls completely surrounding their container.
As the temperature rises in summer, increase the humidity to maintain the balance. These are low-light plants, which need good shade in summer and filtered light in winter. Water all year round and apply feed, but give less to those in pots in winter because they will take longer to dry out. Height: 15cm ( 6 in) to over 30cm (12in).
Bifrena ria harrisoniae is a most pleasing species for the cool greenhouse or indoors, the large flowers, 8cm (3in) wide, which bloom in early summer, are waxy, creamy white and have a deep mauve, hairy lip. One to two flowers are produced on a short spike below the leaves.
Orchids growing on bark will require constant spraying with water over the leaves. Once a week, add a feed to the hand-held spray bottle, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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