Leopard Orchid (Ansellia africana)

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade; avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf burn

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Watering Water thoroughly when pseudobulbs start to wrinkle; allow the growing medium to dry completely between waterings

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Temperature Thrives at 18–27°C; avoid temperatures below 12°C to prevent pseudobulb damage

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Leaf: Linear, leathery leaves grow in two ranks from pseudobulbs; up to 40 cm long
Flower: Clustered, pale yellow blooms with brown leopard-like spots; lightly fragrant
Pseudobulb: Thick, cylindrical storage structure for water and nutrients

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Watering

Keep growing medium slightly moist; mist pseudobulbs to boost humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization in winter when growth slows

Banana peel tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid applying to dry medium

Pruning

Remove spent flower spikes at the base to redirect energy to pseudobulb growth
Trim dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and appearance
Divide overcrowded pseudobulbs during repotting in early spring to promote new growth

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental orchid for indoor and greenhouse display; prized for unique spotted blooms