Aerangis somalensis was discovered in Somalia at the beginning of the 20th century and described by Schlechter as ‘Angraecum somalense’. It occurs naturally in central west Africa where it grows as an epiphyte on trees and bush branches usually around streams at elevations of 1000-1500 m. Aerangis somalensis has thick silvery roots, and leathery grey-green leaves with prominent webbed veins. Leaves are up to 11 cm long making it quite compact. Flower stems can be up to 20 cm long, hanging under the leaves, with up to 15 flowers each. Flowers are white tinged with pink, fragrant, star shaped, up to 2.5 cm in diameter and have long spurs that exceed 10 cm. Flowering occurs in autumn. This is a beautiful miniature easy to grow orchid, suitable for a terrarium or pot culture, which will add drama to any collection. For additional plant information for this special orchid see the Araflora plant symbols.

Aerangis somalensis grows naturally in the base of tree branches as an epiphyte. Medium warm temperatures around 20-30 °C at daytime and 15-20 °C at night are required. It should not be left to dry out between waterings, since it usually grows along streams. Aerangis somalensis is best grown in medium light conditions without direct sunlight. It is suitable for a terrarium where it should be grown towards the top to accommodate for the long hanging flower stems. Mounted on a piece of cork with some sphagnum for extra humidity is the preferable way to grow Aerangis somalensis . This orchid is also suitable for pot culture in coarse sized bark with some sphagnum. 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