Aerangis Fastuosa

Aerangis fastuosa, commonly known as the 'magnificent Aerangis', is a species of epiphytic orchid endemic to Madagascar. It is widespread across Madagascar, stretching from the eastern coastal forests across to the south and along the central plateau. Aerangis fastuosa belongs to the family Orchidaceae, substribe Aerangidinae. It was formally named by Rudolf Schlechter in 1914, but was first described by Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach in 1881, as Angraecum fastuosum. Henri Pierre de la Bathie once attempted to have Aerangis fastuosum split into several varieties, but these were not accepted. Instead, Aerangis fastuosa is thought to have a highly variable morphology, and is known for its large, white, long-lasting, star-shaped, fragrant flowers. It has a very long rostellum, which is distinctive of its genus Aerangis. It can flower every year, even under low light, and is thought to be less prone to disease than other orchids, making it a highly sought out orchid species for cultivation. Aerangis fastuosa has been listed under CITES Appendix II.

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