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.
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