Angraecum leonis

Names and Taxonomy

Angraecum leonis (Rchb.f.) André is the currently accepted name for this orchid according to Kew’s Plants of the World Online[1]. The basionym is Aeranthes leonis Rchb.f., published in Gard. Chron. 23:726 (1885)[2]. Over the years the species has been placed in several genera; documented synonyms include Angraecum humblotii Rchb.f. ex Rolfe (1894), Humblotiangraecum leonis (Szlach., Mytnik & Grochocka 2013), and Mystacidium leonis (Rolfe 1904)[1]. No conflicting taxonomic treatments were found in the supplied sources. A horticultural common name, “Lion’s Moustache Orchid,” appears in a commercial plant description, but it is not recorded in the primary botanical references[5].

How to Identify This Species

In the field Angraecum leonis grows as a small epiphytic subshrub, attaching to tree bark with a short, stout stem. The plant bears 4–5 distichous, narrowly ensiform (sickle‑shaped) leaves that can reach up to 25.4 cm in length and are leathily coriaceous[3][5]. The inflorescence is axillary, often arising from the second or third leaf node, and may carry 1–7 flowers.

Flowers are white to ivory‑cream, 7.5 cm (≈3 in) long, and 5–7.5 cm (≈2–3 in) across[3][6]. The lip bears a pronounced, elongated spur at its base; the spur is described as “long” but exact length is not quantified in the available sources. The fragrance is jasmine‑like and most intense at night, a characteristic of many sphingophilous Angraecum species[3][9].

Two geographical forms have been reported: the Comoros form is noticeably larger, almost twice the size of the Madagascar form, although precise measurements for the latter are not documented in the sources consulted[9].

Native Range and Habitat

The species is native to the Comoros Islands and Madagascar, occurring in seasonally dry tropical forest where it grows as an epiphyte on native trees[1][6]. Elevational distribution ranges from about 200 m to 1 500 m above sea level[3][6]. The habitat is described as a forest with a marked dry season, suggesting the plant is adapted to periods of reduced moisture[5][8].

Species‑Specific Care

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Because the species originates from a seasonally dry forest, it tolerates a brief dry spell but should not be allowed to desiccate completely. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal problems, especially when mounted.

Flowering and Pollination

In cultivation the plant typically blooms in the winter months, though wild flowering is reported for spring to early summer[9]. Individual flowers persist for several weeks and emit a strong jasmine‑like scent at night, indicating sphingophilous (moth‑pollinated) adaptation[3][9]. The long nectar spur suggests pollination by long‑tongued hawkmoths, a hypothesis consistent with other Angraecum species, but no direct pollinator observations for A. leonis were found in the supplied literature.

Conservation and Responsible Cultivation

The species is listed in the CITES Orchid Checklist as an accepted name, meaning international trade is regulated under Appendix II[7]. The IUCN Red List has not evaluated Angraecum leonis (NTBG notes “IUCN: Not Evaluated”)[5]. Collectors should obtain plants from reputable growers who propagate material legally rather than from wild collection.

Evidence and Limitations

Most morphological and ecological data come from horticultural descriptions (IOSPE, NTBG) and the Kew database. Precise measurements of spur length, exact flowering phenology across its range, and detailed pollinator observations are not documented in the accessed sources. Temperature and humidity recommendations are based on grower reports rather than controlled studies, so growers should adjust settings according to plant response.