White Christmas Orchid
angraecum eburneum
Also known as: ["Christmas Star Orchid","White Christmas Star Orchid"]
Overview
A large epiphytic orchid native to Madagascar, known for its fragrant, waxy white flowers that bloom in winter.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Angraecum |
| Botanical Name: | Angraecum eburneum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor mounted or potted orchid in a bright, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite, charcoal, and a small amount of sphagnum moss for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or when dead material accumulates; annually to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged parts without overcutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun with filtered afternoon shade outdoors; reduce light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; indoors, place near east-facing windows or under grow lights.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer curtains to diffuse strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot; ensure water reaches the root zone but doesn’t pool.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and charcoal
pH: Slightly acidic, 5.5–6.5 pH.
Ensure medium dries between waterings; avoid compacted soil; refresh mix every 2 years.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–80°F (15–27°C); prefers cooler nights (55–65°F) during winter dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; maintain humidity in warm conditions; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of mature clumps; keiki propagation is also possible.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem/keiki.
- Cut below node.
- Apply hormone (optional).
- Place in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Keep medium moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle air circulation; monitor for pests.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim dead leaves just above the node; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and dead foliage to redirect energy to new growth; shape plant for better light exposure.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears; sterilize between cuts.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead material; avoid over-pruning; clean debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the active growth phase begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove old medium; trim dead roots; place in slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when potting medium decomposes; necessary if roots outgrow the container.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water early morning; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting the leaves; allow excess water to drain completely; maintain consistent moisture during growth periods.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer); reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate orchid bark for aeration; use sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf spotting from excessive heat; slow growth or bud drop from cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, causing stunted growth and potential root damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; maintain consistent temperatures above 55°F (13°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; reduced flowering due to excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; ensure good air circulation; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growth; flush periodically; stop in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAngraecum eburneum is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicAngraecum eburneum is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicAngraecum eburneum is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Angraecum eburneum?
A: Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on conditions.
Q: Does this orchid require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to other epiphytic orchids.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or improper lighting; assess care conditions accordingly.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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