Roxb.
Description
Aerides multiflora is an epiphytic orchid of the subtribe Aeridinae, native to the eastern Himalayas and extending into Southeast Asia. Its natural range encompasses Nepal, northeast India (Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh), Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, and southwest China (Yunnan). The species inhabits humid, semi-deciduous and evergreen forests at elevations of 200–2,000 m, typically growing on mossy tree trunks and branches in well-lit positions.
The plant produces stout, terete stems 20–40 cm long, clothed with distichous, coriaceous, strap-shaped leaves that are 15–25 cm long and unequally bilobed at the apex. The inflorescence is a densely many-flowered, pendent raceme 15–30 cm long, bearing 20–40 fragrant flowers. Individual flowers are 2–2.5 cm across, white to pale rose-pink with purple spots, the lip trilobed with a prominent forward-pointing spur. The mid-lobe is fleshy and tongue-shaped. Flowering occurs from April to June.
Aerides multiflora is valued in horticulture for its abundant, sweetly fragrant blooms. The species is under pressure from overcollection and habitat degradation across its range. Like all orchids, it is listed under CITES Appendix II, regulating international trade.
Author: Roxb. · Sources: POWO (Kew), Flora of Bhutan Vol. 3, GBIF, Pearce & Cribb: The Orchids of Bhutan (2002)