Polystachya anceps is a robust plant, that grows up to 45 cm high, it has elongated pseudo-bulbs that are green-black in colour. Its dark green leaves are oblong and 12cm in length. Its inflorescence is 35 cm long with small golden-white flowers. The flowers are variable in size and colour.
Epiphyte orchid growing in sub-humid and humid forests and usually on tree trunks covered with moss.
This native orchid is protected in the reserves and under the forest restoration project. The decrease in population is caused by habitat loss and the invasion of exotic species.
It is also present in Madagascar and Comoros in large communities.
In Greek or Latin, an anceps syllable can mean short or long. The epithet therefore refers to the variable size of the flower.
It was recorded in Mauritius in 1885 by Mark Ridley.