How to Grow Lion Orchid
Wikimedia Commons
Lion Orchid
Angraecum leonis
flowerAngraecum leonis is a miniature to small epiphytic orchid native to Madagascar, prized for its delicate white flowers with a distinctive long spur. It is an elegant specimen orchid that produces fragrant blooms typically during winter months. This species is ideal for orchid enthusiasts looking to cultivate a compact, rewarding tropical orchid.
When should you plant Lion Orchid in your zone?
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Example Lion Orchid timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lion Orchid
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Lion Orchid blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10b-11; must be grown indoors or in controlled greenhouse environments in cooler regions
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Get my Lion Orchid timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
6-12 months on flaskVery tiny, delicate plants with minimal foliage; protocorms develop into small plantlets on seed flasks
Requires high humidity (90%+), sterile conditions, and careful monitoring; typically purchased as seedlings rather than grown from seed by hobbyists
Vegetative Growth
1-3 yearsSmall rosettes of narrow, strap-like green leaves form; plant establishes root system and aerial roots; slow growth rate
Maintain consistent warmth (65-75°F nights, 75-85°F days), high humidity, and bright indirect light; establish regular watering and feeding schedule; provide air circulation
Pre-flowering
2-4 weeks before bloomPlant reaches flowering maturity; may develop visible flower buds at leaf base; roots appear vigorous and light-colored
Provide slight temperature drop (60-65°F nights) to encourage flowering; reduce nitrogen fertilizer; maintain humidity and light levels; be patient as first flowering may take 3-5 years
Flowering
4-8 weeks, typically winter monthsDelicate white star-shaped flowers with long curved spur (3-4 inches) appear; highly fragrant, especially in evening; blooms last 4-8 weeks
Maintain stable temperatures and humidity; avoid moving plant during blooming; provide gentle air circulation to help pollination; continue regular watering
Post-flowering/Dormancy
2-3 monthsFlowers fade and drop; plant enters semi-dormant period; growth slows significantly
Reduce watering slightly but maintain moisture; continue feeding at reduced strength; maintain warm temperatures; prepare for next growth cycle; remove spent flower spike if desired
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Isolate affected plant; spray with insecticidal soap or 70% isopropyl alcohol on cotton swabs; repeat every 7-10 days for 3 weeks
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Increase humidity; spray foliage with water to dislodge; use miticide or insecticidal soap if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Manual removal with soft brush; spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; treat every 10-14 days for persistent infestations
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Ensure excellent air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; remove affected tissue immediately; apply fungicide if systemic infection; reduce watering frequency
Uses
Vanilla substitute research
CulinaryWhile not used in cooking, Angraecum orchids are related to vanilla orchids and have been studied for aromatic compounds; the intense fragrance makes it valuable for perfume and fragrance research. [source]
Indoor fragrance
HouseholdThe highly scented flowers provide natural fragrance to rooms, especially in evening hours when scent is strongest; excellent for bedrooms or living spaces seeking natural aromatics. [source]
Specialty cut flowers
CraftElegant white flowers with distinctive spurs are prized by florists and orchid enthusiasts for exotic floral arrangements; long-lasting blooms make them valuable for wedding and special event designs. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe long nectar spur and fragrance attract nocturnal moths and other pollinators in natural habitat; cultivated indoors, they provide visual interest and can be hand-pollinated. [source]
Traditional uses in Madagascar
MedicinalSome Malagasy traditional practices incorporate orchid species for cultural and spiritual purposes; limited scientific research on medicinal properties exists. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers once fully open and fragrant, typically in morning; place in water or orchid flower food to extend vase life (2-4 weeks); flowers produce fragrance especially in evening; do not remove spike until completely dry to encourage future blooms from same spike
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Angraecum leonis was first described in the 1800s and is endemic to Madagascar, making it a highly sought-after species among orchid collectors worldwide
- 🌱 The flower's long spur can be up to 4 inches and is specifically adapted to be pollinated by a particular nocturnal moth with a matching proboscis length in its native habitat
- 🌱 This species produces a powerful sweet fragrance primarily in the evening and at night, a trait shared with many Angraecum species that are pollinated under cover of darkness
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