Aerangis

The ideal light range for Aerangis is 1,500 to 2,500 footcandles. Signs of too much light: yellowing leaves, red/purple stress tones, leaf tip burn. Signs of too little light: slow growth, failure to spike, overly dark green leaves.

• Greenhouse: Use shade cloth to maintain deep filtered light. Avoid direct midday sun entirely.

• Indoors: A north or shaded east-facing window is ideal.

• Artificial light: o LEDs or fluorescent lights placed 12–18 in (30–45 cm) above plants

o Aim for 8,000–12,000 lumens/yd2 (9,600 – 14,400 lumens/m2)

o Aerangis will grow at lower light levels, but flowering may be reduced.

Aerangis thrive in cool-intermediate to warm-intermediate conditions depending on species: nights: 55–68°F (12.7–20°C) and days: 68–82°F (20–28°C).

Most species tolerate warm days but dislike hot nights. Thin leaves and fine roots make Aerangis prone to dehydration in heat. Increase humidity and airflow during hot spells.

Many Aerangis initiate spikes when nights drop below 65°F (18°C). High night temperatures (>75°F / 24°C) may delay or reduce flowering. Once spikes form, they tolerate warmer conditions without bud blast.

Aerangis appreciate frequent moisture with rapid drying. Never allow plants to remain bone dry for extended periods. Water thoroughly, then allow the medium or mount to approach dryness. Aerangis have very fine roots that desiccate quickly — monitor closely. Aerangis roots are also extremely sensitive to rot — avoid soggy media. Always water in the morning to prevent overnight crown or leaf-base rot.

Mounted Plants: Aerangis excel when mounted. Daily watering is needed in warm weather and every 2–3 days in cool or humid conditions. Use lukewarm water only and avoid hard or salt-softened water.

Potted Plants: If grown indoors, use small, airy pots with fine bark or sphagnum blends. Water when the top layer is dry, but the interior is still faintly moist.

In dry homes, allow them to sit in ¼–½ inch (0.6–1.3 cm) of flow-through water for a few hours to rehydrate.

Aerangis appreciate humidity with the ideal range of 60–85%. Minimum humidity is 50% indoors with regular watering. If humidity is low, increase watering frequency or use a small humidifier.

A constant airflow is essential for Aerangis because it mimics natural breezy forest habitats, helps to prevent fungal issues, and allows higher humidity without stagnation.

Aerangis benefit from light, consistent feeding. Use ¼–½ strength balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) and fertilize every 2–3 weeks during active growth. Reduce or stop fertilizing during cooler months or when light levels drop. Avoid heavy feeding — Aerangis roots burn easily.

Mounting is the preferred method for Aerangis because this provides for a natural growth habit, protects the fine roots, and allows for rapid drying and high airflow.

If potting is necessary, use fine-grade bark, sphagnum, or a fine bark–sphagnum mix. Choose net pots or slotted pots to maximize airflow, and repot every 1–2 years, or sooner if medium decomposes.

Repot in spring or early summer. Keep the roots intact as much as possible and position plants slightly forward-leaning (30–45°) to prevent water collecting in the crown.

A printable version of the care sheet can be found here.

Further information can be found on the Aerangis genus page.

Best orchid care practices are also provided for watering, repotting, and fertilizer types. There are also detailed discussions of growing orchids indoors, outdoors, or in greenhouses.

For more information on genus name changes, see Taxonomy.