Aerides

Aerides

This popular genus includes approximately 20 species of monopodial orchids which are found from India and China to Papua New Guinea and the Philippines.

They are epiphytes which generally prefer bright light and low to moderate elevations.

They usually form a climbing branched plant with stems from 30cm up to 1.5m long. Their leaves are usually straplike and leathery or thick and succulent with the leaves being utilised as storage reservoirs in dry periods. Most species have long infloresecences with well displayed, white to pink or purple, waxy flowers with a forward projecting spur.

Cultivation:

Large slabs, baskets or hanging pots are best to accomadate the scrambling roots which will cling to any surface or form tangled aerial masses. They must be given bright light and constant humidity to flower well with temperature requirements governed by the elevation at which the species are found.