Name: Aeranthes ramosa Rolfe

Synonyms: Aeranthes vespertilio Cogn.; Aeranthes brevivaginans H.Perrier

Etymology: The genus name Aeranthes means "air flower" and refers to the delicate, seemingly floating flowers. The Latin ramosa means "branched".

First description: Robert Allen Rolfe, 1901.

Origin/Distribution: Madagascar.

Location/Habitat: Epiphytic in very moist, moss-rich forests at middle altitudes, approximately between 1,000 and 1,500 m. The species prefers high humidity, filtered light and intermediate temperatures of about 15–25 °C.

Description and notes: Aeranthes ramosa has a monopodial stem with distichous leaves and produces long, branched inflorescences. The translucent, greenish-white flowers appear delicate and bear a long spur. Old inflorescences should not be removed too hastily, as they can develop new side shoots and flowers. We cultivate the species in a very airy, well-drained substrate or mounted, keep the roots evenly slightly moist and at the same time ensure gentle, steady air movement.