Christine de Beer - effortless floral craftsman

Ansellia Africana
The Leopard orchid is an epiphyte (the whole plant grows above ground, attached to branches of a tree). The pin shaped roots anchor the plant to the tree. To absorb water and nutrients the roots point upwards and form a dense mass around the bulbs to catch water and rotting foliage.
Detail from "Forest Experience". Helderberg Flower Club: Floral Fantasy Competition
Common name
Origin
Varieties
Colors
Vase life
As a cut flower: Seven to ten days with proper care
Scent
Uses
Cut from stem and use the individual blossoms or use the entire stem in a vase. The Leopard orchid is very popular in traditional African arrangements- it is believed to be a love charm, an antidote for bad dreams and at homesteads it will ward off lightning.
Conditioning
Plant:After flowers fade give the spike a clean cut just above the second or third node to encourage re-flowering. The entire plant can also be conditioned to use in an arrangement by removing the growth medium and submerging in warm water overnight.
Cut flower: Give the stem a fresh cut preferably keeping a section of the main stem attached to the flower stem and condition in deep water. Flowers can be revived by bathing them in lukewarm water.
Sign up for my weekly newsletter
Every week I add a new design with related tutorials. Be sure to subscribe to receive an email notification with design inspiration.