Aerangis fastuosa was introduced to Europe in the late 19th century by the nurseries of both Leon Humbolt and Sander. It was initially described by Reichenbach f. as ‘Angraecum fastuosum’. It is a small orchid growing naturally in eastern and central Madagascar at elevations of 900-1700 m. It is an epiphyte on twigs and small branches in a variety of habitats including evergreen and dry montane forests, making it highly adaptable. Plants of Aerangis fastuosa can rarely reach 15 cm wide, and have thick, textured grey-bluish leaves sometimes with orange or pinkish edges. The short flower stem bears 1-5 large (up to 5 cm in diameter) pure white, fragrant flowers that essentially obscure the leaves. Flowering occurs summer to winter. This is a beautiful easy orchid to grow especially in a terrarium where mounted it will impress with its distinctive leaves and flowers. For additional plant information for this special orchid see the Araflora plant symbols.

Aerangis fastuosa grows naturally as an epiphyte on small branches and twigs in a variety of habitats making it highly adaptable. Medium warm temperatures around 20-30 °C at daytime and 15-20 °C at night are required. It should never be left to dry between waterings. Aerangis fastuosa is best grown in moderate bright conditions without any direct sunlight. It is suitable even the smallest terrarium and should be mounted with a bit of sphagnum at the base for extra humidity.  This orchid is also suitable for pot culture in medium sized bark with some sphagnum and can be grown as a statement in a glass bowl. Fertilizing every 15 days with a high nitrogen water soluble fertilizer diluted in half the normal concentration during the growing season (mainly mid-spring and summer) is highly beneficial. For additional plant information for this special orchid see the Araflora plant care symbols.