Origin
Angraecopsis thouarsii (Finet) H.Perrier is a species of orchid that is native to Madagascar, a large island nation off the coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. It can also be found in other parts of sub-Saharan Africa, such as Tanzania and Zambia.
Common Names
Angraecopsis thouarsii is commonly referred to as the "Thouars's angraecopsis" or "Thouars's white orchid".
Uses
Angraecopsis thouarsii is mainly cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive and fragrant flowers. Its flowers are often used in floral arrangements and it is a popular choice among orchid enthusiasts. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat various ailments including stomach problems and respiratory infections.
General Appearance
Angraecopsis thouarsii is a small to medium-sized epiphytic orchid with a compact cluster of white flowers. The plant grows up to 20cm tall and its flowers are approximately 2cm wide. The flowers have a round shape and are made up of waxy petals. The lip of the flower is broad and has a yellow-orange center with a purple or brownish blotch. The leaves are leathery and dark green in color, growing up to 8cm long. The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight and moderate humidity, making it a suitable choice for indoor or greenhouse cultivation.
Light Requirements
Angraecopsis thouarsii (Finet) H.Perrier grows best under moderate to bright indirect sunlight. It is essential to place the plant near a window that receives indirect sunlight or in a spot with a fluorescent bulb. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it may cause sunburn to the leaves and damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in temperatures ranging between 60°F- 80°F, but it can withstand temperatures from 40°F- 90°F, but only for a short time. At higher temperatures, it requires proper ventilation to prevent dehydration. When winter approaches, the plant needs to be kept in a warm spot and protected from freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Angraecopsis thouarsii (Finet) H.Perrier prefers a well-draining epiphytic mix for soil. In its natural habitat, the plant typically grows attached to tree branches. Thus it requires a light and porous mix, consisting of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. The soil should be able to retain moisture without becoming too soggy or waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Angraecopsis thouarsii is an epiphytic plant that grows well in a variety of conditions. It is commonly found in the forests of Madagascar and prefers a warm and humid environment. Therefore, it is essential to provide a suitable growing medium that mimics these conditions. Use a well-draining potting medium that contains sphagnum moss, bark, and perlite. This will ensure that the plant receives enough air circulation and moisture.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Angraecopsis thouarsii differ depending on the season and the growth stage of the plant. During the active growing season, water the plant regularly, keeping the potting medium evenly moist. Reduce the watering frequency during the dormant season, allowing the potting medium to dry slightly between watering. Avoid overwatering, as this may lead to root rot and ultimately kill the plant.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and blooming, fertilize Angraecopsis thouarsii every two weeks during the active growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 20-20-20 or 15-15-15. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer that releases nutrients over time. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying the fertilizer to avoid overfertilization, which may harm the plant.
Pruning
Angraecopsis thouarsii doesn't require much pruning and should be left to grow naturally. However, if the plant outgrows its container, you can repot it into a larger pot. When repotting, trim off any dead or damaged roots and trim back any excessively long roots. This will ensure that the plant has enough room to grow and develop healthy new roots.
Propagation of Angraecopsis thouarsii
Angraecopsis thouarsii (Finet) H.Perrier is a beautiful epiphytic orchid that is commonly found in Madagascar. The plant has a unique growth habit and produces lovely, fragrant flowers that are loved by orchid enthusiasts. If you're interested in growing this plant, it's important to know how to propagate it. Fortunately, Angraecopsis thouarsii can be propagated through different methods, including:
Propagation by Division
The most straightforward method of propagating Angraecopsis thouarsii is through division. This method is best employed when the plant outgrows its pot or when it produces multiple growth points or pseudobulbs. When dividing, ensure that each division has at least two or three pseudobulbs to guarantee successful growth.
Propagation by Seedlings
While propagating orchids through seeding is time-consuming, it is the most effective way of producing genetically diverse plants. Propagating Angraecopsis thouarsii through seedlings is a little different from other orchids, and it requires specialized care. Ensure that the seeds and the container used are sterile, to minimize the risk of contamination. The container should be sealed using a transparent plastic bag or a petri dish to maintain steady humidity levels.
Propagation by Keiki's Growth
Keiki growth is a common occurrence in Angraecopsis thouarsii. Keikis are essentially baby plants produced by the mother plant, and they can be used to propagate the orchid. To propagate Angraecopsis thouarsii by Keikis, wait until the Keikis have developed their root system before separating them from the mother plant. Keikis can then be potted individually and grown into mature plants.
Propagation of Angraecopsis thouarsii takes patience and requires the appropriate tools, but it is a rewarding experience. Whether you're using seeds, dividing, or waiting for Keiki growth, propagating Angraecopsis thouarsii is fairly easy, and with proper care, the plants you propagate can grow into healthy and beautiful orchids.
Disease Management
Angraecopsis thouarsii is susceptible to several diseases that can cause its leaves and flowers to wither, turn yellow or brown, or drop prematurely. The most common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spots are caused by different fungi and bacteria and result in small, circular or irregular shaped lesions on the leaves, which can merge and cause large areas of dead tissue. To control leaf spot, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and a fungicide spray can be applied as a preventive measure.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi that thrive in wet or poorly aerated soils. The symptoms of root rot include yellowing and wilting of leaves, and a general decline in plant health. To prevent root rot, the plant should be kept in well-draining soil and watered sparingly.
- Virus: Viral infections in Angraecopsis thouarsii can cause leaf mosaic, yellowing, or stunted growth. There are no cures for viral diseases, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the virus.
Pest Management
Angraecopsis thouarsii is also susceptible to attack by pests that can weaken or kill the plant. The most common pests that affect this plant are:
- Spider mites: Spider mites are small arachnids that feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing yellowing, stippling, and webbing. To control spider mites, the plant should be sprayed with water to dislodge them, and a miticide can be applied as a treatment.
- Scale insects: Scale insects are small, sap-sucking insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant, causing yellowing, leaf drop, and the secretion of honeydew. To control scale insects, the plant should be sprayed with an insecticide that kills both the adults and the eggs.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing wilting, yellowing, and stunting. They also secrete a white, powdery substance that covers the plant's leaves and stems. To control mealybugs, the plant should be sprayed with an insecticide, and the affected parts should be removed and destroyed.
