Description of Aerangis parvula Schltr.
Aerangis parvula Schltr. is a beautiful orchid species that belongs to the genus Aerangis and the family Orchidaceae. Also known as the Small Aerangis, this plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, including Angola, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania.
Common Names
The common names for Aerangis parvula Schltr. include Small Aerangis, African Miniature Orchid, and Dwarf Aerangis, among others, owing to its small size and delicate appearance.
Uses
Aerangis parvula Schltr. is often grown as an ornamental plant, prized for its miniature size and stunning white flowers. It is commonly cultivated in a greenhouse or terrarium, where it can be kept at high humidity levels, just like its natural habitat. Furthermore, this species is an epiphyte, which means that it can be grown attached to other plants, such as trees, logs, or rocks.
General Appearance
Aerangis parvula Schltr. is a small plant that can reach up to 8 cm in height and 5 cm in width. It has strap-like leaves, which grow up to 5 cm in length and 0.6 cm in width, with pointed tips and pale green color. The flowers of Aerangis parvula Schltr. are carried on thin, wiry stems that can grow up to 8 cm long. They are small, with a diameter of around 1 cm, and have a white, star-shaped, fragrant corolla, with a yellowish-green throat. The plant blooms in summer, producing up to 15 flowers per inflorescence, which can last for several weeks.
In summary, Aerangis parvula Schltr. is a stunning miniature orchid native to Africa, commonly grown as an ornamental plant for its delicate appearance and beautiful white flowers. Its strap-like leaves and thin, wiry stems, carrying small, star-shaped flowers, make it an ideal choice for a terrarium or greenhouse setting.Light Requirements
Aerangis parvula Schltr. prefers bright but indirect light. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives well in a warm environment with temperatures between 18°C to 30°C during the day and 10°C to 16°C at night. Ensure that the temperature does not fall below 10°C as it may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Aerangis parvula Schltr. requires a well-draining potting mixture that retains some moisture. The ideal soil mix should comprise of bark, sphagnum, and perlite in the ratio of 3:1:1 respectively.
Cultivation Methods
Aerangis parvula Schltr, also known as the African Micro-Orchid, is a small epiphyte species found in moist forests in Tanzania. It requires specific cultivation methods and environmental conditions to thrive. Aerangis parvula Schltr. requires a well-draining substrate that allows air circulation around its roots. It grows best in a humid environment with temperatures ranging from 18 to 27°C. It needs high humidity levels and frequent misting to keep the air around the plant moist.
Watering Needs
The watering of Aerangis parvula Schltr. should be done carefully to prevent overwatering or underwatering. Watering the plant once in a week is sufficient, but you should adjust the frequency based on the environmental conditions and substrate used. The plant should not be allowed to sit in stagnant water, as this can cause root rot. You can check the moisture levels in the substrate by touching it with your finger or using a moisture meter.
Fertilization
The African Micro-Orchid prefers a balanced orchid fertilizer mixed at half strength. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season, but stop fertilizing during the rest period. Over-fertilization can lead to leaf burn, and therefore it is advisable to use a weaker solution than what is recommended.
Pruning
Pruning Aerangis parvula Schltr. is unnecessary until the plant outgrows its container or has some damaged or dead parts. In case your plant becomes too big for its pot, repot it in a larger Pot with a new growing medium.
Propagation of Aerangis parvula Schltr.
Aerangis parvula Schltr. is a species of orchid that is native to Madagascar. The plant can be propagated using various methods, such as division, backbulb propagation, and seed propagation.
Division
Aerangis parvula Schltr. can be propagated through division of its rhizomes. The best time for division is during the repotting season, which should be done in the spring. The plant should be carefully removed from its pot and the rhizome should be sectioned into parts with at least one growth point. The divisions should be potted in fresh, well-draining medium and kept in a warm, humid environment until the new roots and leaves form.
Backbulb propagation
Another method of propagation for Aerangis parvula Schltr. is backbulb propagation. This involves taking the pseudobulb of the plant along with old roots and potting it in a separate container. The backbulb should be positioned in such a way that the old roots are in contact with the medium. The backbulb should be kept in a warm, humid environment with indirect light until new roots and leaves emerge.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is a more challenging method of propagation, but can be rewarding. The seeds should be sown on a sterile, well-draining medium and kept in a warm, humid environment with indirect light. The seeds should be watered lightly and regularly to prevent the medium from drying out. Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be transferred to individual containers with fresh medium and kept in a warm, humid environment until they establish new roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Aerangis parvula Schltr.
Aerangis parvula Schltr. is a species of orchid that is vulnerable to various diseases and pests. Proper care and management are necessary to prevent these issues. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
Fungal diseases: Fungal infections can occur from poor air circulation, high humidity, and the use of contaminated potting medium. Common fungal infections in Aerangis parvula are black spot, leaf blight, and root rot. To manage these diseases, ensure good air circulation, use a well-draining potting medium, and avoid overwatering. Apply a fungicide treatment as soon as the first signs of infection appear.
Viral diseases: Viral infections can cause yellowing and deformed leaves, and stunted growth. There is no cure for viral infections in plants, so it is important to prevent them by avoiding the use of infected plant material and maintaining proper sanitation practices. Remove any infected plant parts immediately to prevent the spread of the virus.
Pests:
Spider mites: Spider mites are common pests that attack Aerangis parvula causing discoloration and webbing on leaves. Spray a stream of water on the infested plant to dislodge the mites – repeat this every 3-4 days until the infestation is under control. If the infestation is severe, apply an insecticidal soap or Neem oil treatment.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs can cause deformed leaves and stunted growth. To manage mealybug infestations, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the insects manually. For severe infestations, use an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil spray.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the plant and feed on its sap. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove scales manually, or use an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil spray.
Always inspect Aerangis parvula Schltr. regularly for any signs of disease or pest infestation and act immediately to manage and prevent them. With proper care and management, this wonderful orchid species can grow and bloom beautifully.
