ABSTRACT
New pseudobulbs are produced at regular intervals along a rhizome-like rootstock and in Polystachya and Ansellia the inflorescences arises from the apex of the pseudobulb. In vigorous and well grown plants of Ansellia branched flowering stems may also grow from the sides of the cane-like pseudobulbs. Air movement is another important factor when growing epiphytes. The plants growing in the crown of trees are exposed to good air movement and those further down are a little more protected. Umdoni is the Zulu name for this species. Trees are found in moist or damp areas near rivers and streams in Mpumalanga, the Northern Province, KwaZulu Natal and the Eastern Cape. Charcoal is made by stacking quantities of wood in a special oven where it is heated in the absence of air to form pure carbon. Charcoal chips come in different grades and can be bought at orchid nurseries. The epiphytic species are presented in two groups according to their growth habit.
