Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl.
Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. is a species of epiphytic orchid found in the African rainforest, specifically in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Congo.
Common Names
This orchid species is commonly known as the Fragile Angraecopsis or Delicate Angraecopsis in English, and Angraecopsis délicate in French.
Uses
Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its striking, delicate flowers. It is often found in plant nurseries and collections for its attractiveness and ease of cultivation.
Appearance
This orchid species has thin, elongated leaves and produces fragrant, small white flowers in an inflorescence. The flowers are characterized by their greenish-yellow or light yellow centers, with white petals and sepals that are narrowly oblong and slightly twisted. The lip is three-lobed and white with purple spots, making it a beautiful sight in the rainforests where it grows.
Light Requirements
Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. requires a significant amount of light to grow optimally. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can also grow under direct sunlight if it is not too intense. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so it's important to protect the plant from intense rays. Provide at least 6 hours of bright light per day to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature range for Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate temperatures below 15°C and above 35°C. Keep the plant in a warm and humid environment with good air circulation. Avoid placing the plant in areas where there are sudden temperature changes, such as near air conditioning or heating vents.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires a well-draining, coarse potting mix. Use a mixture of orchid bark, perlite, and charcoal in a 2:1:1 ratio. Avoid using heavy soil or potting mix that retains too much moisture, as it can lead to root rot. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH range between 6.0 to 7.0.
Cultivation Methods for Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl.
Before starting the cultivation of Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl., you must have a basic understanding of the necessary environmental conditions required for its growth. This plant is native to Madagascar, and it requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. Therefore, ensure you plant it in an environment that regularly receives a temperature range between 20-30°C and a relative humidity range of 70-80%.
You can plant the Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. in a hanging basket, which helps to replicate its native habitat's climate. The plant's growth habit is epiphytic, which means it attaches itself to a host tree or tree trunk and grows aerial roots. Therefore, when planting, use a coarse material like bark, coconut husk, or tree fern fiber to provide an environment that supports sufficient air movement, water drainage, and root development.
Watering Needs for Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl.
Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. requires frequent but moderate watering to maintain a moist environment for optimal growth. Water the plant once every five to seven days, ensuring that the potting material is moist at all times. However, be cautious not to overwater as it can lead to root rot and cause the plant to die. Also, avoid watering the leaves and flowers and concentrate on the potting medium to prevent moisture accumulation that attracts pests and diseases.
Fertilization of Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl.
Fertilization is essential for the optimal growth of the Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. plant. You can fertilize the plant once every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 20-20-20. Alternatively, you can use a low nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive vegetative growth. It would be best to fertilize the plant during the growing season and reduce fertilization during the dormant seasons like winter.
Pruning Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl.
It is not necessary to prune the Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. plant regularly. However, you can remove dead, yellow leaves, and spent flowers to maintain the plant's appearance and promote new growth. When pruning, use clean and sharp tools to avoid injuring or damaging the plant.
Propagation of Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl.
Propagation of Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. can be done by three methods: seed propagation, division, and stem cutting propagation.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. can be collected from mature seed pods. The seed pods must be left on the plant until they are fully mature before they are harvested. The seeds can then be sown on a well-draining substrate within three days after extraction. Ensure that the substrate is moist and kept under high humidity to facilitate germination. The seeds will germinate in approximately three to four weeks. It is important to note that the seedlings require a high level of humidity and reduced light intensity until they establish.
Division
Division is another method used in Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. propagation. This method is suitable for mature plants with several parts. The plant should be removed from the pot and carefully divided with a sharp knife, ensuring that each division has a healthy root system. The divided sections can be planted in separate pots with well-draining substrates and kept under high humidity. After planting, watering should be adequately done, and proper shading should be provided to reduce water loss through transpiration.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. can be propagated via stem cuttings. The shoots should be carefully cut, ensuring that there are at least two leaves and a healthy root system. The cuttings should be placed in a sterile substrate and kept under high humidity until roots are formed. Once the roots are established, the plant is ready for planting in a suitable root substrate.
Disease and Pest Management for Angraecopsis Tenerrima Kraenzl.
Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. is a type of orchid that can be affected by several diseases and pests. As a result, proper disease and pest management are essential to ensure the plant’s survival.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that affect Angraecopsis tenerrima is black rot. Black rot is caused by a fungus that infects the plant’s leaves and stems. Symptoms of this disease include blackened and mushy areas on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, it is important to promptly remove all infected plant parts to prevent further spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be applied to the plant to manage the disease. Another common disease that affects Angraecopsis tenerrima is leaf spot. This disease is caused by a bacteria that infects the plant’s leaves, causing brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to promptly remove all infected plant parts and to avoid overhead watering, which can contribute to the spread of this disease.
Common Pests
Some common pests that can affect Angraecopsis tenerrima include spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellow and brown discolouration on the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, it is important to keep the plant in a humid environment, as spider mites thrive in dry conditions. The use of neem oil or insecticidal soap can also help to manage spider mites. Mealybugs are another common pest that can affect Angraecopsis tenerrima. These pests are small, white, and fluffy and can be found in clusters on the leaves of the plant. To manage mealybugs, it is important to manually remove them from the plant using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Insecticidal soap can also be used to manage mealybugs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper disease and pest management are essential for the survival of Angraecopsis tenerrima Kraenzl. By promptly removing infected plant parts and using appropriate treatments such as fungicides, neem oil, and insecticidal soap, this plant can be effectively managed against diseases and pests.
