Native to tropical and southern Africa, Ansellia africana, often called the leopard orchid, is an epiphytic orchid found in open woodland, savanna, and along forest edges from sea level to elevations of around 6,500 feet. It typically grows in large clumps attached to tree branches, where its extensive root systems form dense, basket-like structures capable of trapping organic debris for nutrients. The pseudobulbs are tall and spindle-shaped, producing narrow, strap-like leaves. Flowering usually occurs in late winter to early spring, producing multiple branched inflorescences bearing dozens of showy flowers. Each blossom has a yellow base color with distinctive maroon or reddish-brown spotting, giving rise to the common name. The flowers are lightly fragrant and long-lasting. Photographed in Florida.