Overview of Angraecum brevicornus Summerh.
Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. is a species of flowering plant from the family Orchidaceae. It is native to Madagascar and was first described in 1935 by botanist Victor Summerhayes.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Short-spurred Angraecum due to its shortened spur, which is a characteristic feature of this species.
Appearance
The Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. is a small epiphytic orchid with pseudobulbs that measure up to 4 cm long. The leaves are leathery and elongated, growing up to 20 cm long and 2.5 cm wide. The inflorescence measures up to 15 cm long, producing 1 to 3 flowers that are white in color with green or yellow tinted sepals and petals. The lip is elongated and oblong, measuring up to 2 cm long. The spur is short, measuring only up to 5 mm in length, and the flower has a sweet fragrance.
Uses
Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and fragrant blossoms. It is often grown in greenhouses or as an indoor plant. In its native Madagascar, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever and stomach disorders.
Light Requirements
Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. is an epiphytic orchid that requires adequate light for its growth. It typically thrives in bright and filtered light conditions. Direct exposure to bright sunlight may harm the plant and lead to sunburn, so it is best to provide shade during the hottest parts of the day. A recommended light intensity for proper growth is approximately 1000-2000 foot-candles.
Temperature Requirements
The Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. orchid requires warm temperatures to thrive. Optimal temperature for the plant is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 18°C (64°F) and a maximum of 38°C (100°F) without harming the plant.
Soil Requirements
As an epiphytic orchid, Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. thrives in a well-draining growing medium. It typically grows on the bark of trees or other host plants in its natural habitat. Thus, it requires a growing medium that mimics its natural environment. A recommended growing medium for the plant includes coarse bark, perlite, and charcoal mixed in equal parts. It requires periodic watering and fertilization, but the frequency of watering decreases during the winter months.
Cultivation Methods
Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. is a species of orchid that hails from Madagascar. This epiphytic orchid is typically grown in a greenhouse or on a windowsill that receives bright, indirect sunlight. It requires a warm, humid environment and grows best in temperatures ranging from 65-85°F (18-29°C).
The plant can be grown in a pot with a well-draining orchid mix that is made up of bark, perlite, and moss. It can also be mounted on a piece of bark or wood and hung in a basket. The orchid should be kept away from direct sunlight, and the roots should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering Angraecum brevicornus Summerh., it is important to strike a balance between moist roots and avoiding waterlogged soil. The orchid should be watered thoroughly and then allowed to dry out before watering again. In general, this species should be watered once every seven to ten days, and more frequently in the summer months when temperatures and humidity levels are higher.
If grown in a pot, the orchid should be soaked in water for a few minutes to ensure the roots are moist and then allowed to drain off excess water. If mounted on a piece of bark or wood, the orchid can be misted with water to maintain moisture levels.
Fertilization
Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, which runs from early spring to late fall. The orchid can be fed with a balanced orchid fertilizer that is diluted to half strength every two weeks. Be sure to use a fertilizer specifically designed for orchids, as regular plant fertilizers can harm the plant.
To avoid overfertilization, it is essential to flush the soil or growing medium with clear water every few months. Additionally, avoid fertilizing the orchid during the winter months when it is typically dormant.
Pruning
Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. typically does not require pruning beyond occasional removal of dead leaves or blooms. However, if the plant is getting too large for its environment, it can be divided during its dormant season. To divide the orchid, remove it from its pot or mount and separate the clumps gently, ensuring that each section has healthy roots. Then, replant or remount the sections and care for them as you would care for a mature plant.
Propagation of Angraecum brevicornus Summerh.
Propagation of Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. can be done through several methods such as:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. can be collected and sown in a sterile seed-starting mix. The seeds should be sown on the surface of the growing medium and not buried. The container should be kept moist and placed in bright, indirect light. Germination can take several months.
Division
The plant can be divided when it outgrows its container. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and separate the individual plants by gently pulling them apart. Each new plant should have a handful of roots attached to it. Repot each individual plant into its own container with fresh potting mix.
Keiki propagation
Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. can produce keikis, or baby plants, from nodes along the stem or at the base of the plant. Once the keiki develops roots of its own, it can be carefully removed from the mother plant and potted separately. Keiki propagation is a great way to propagate Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. without disturbing the mother plant too much.
Disease and Pest Management for Angraecum brevicornus Summerh.
Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. is a beautiful orchid that is commonly grown for its fragrant, white flowers. However, just like any other plant, it can be vulnerable to certain pests and diseases. Here's a list of common pests and diseases that might affect the plant:
Pests
1. Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf yellowing and webbing on the foliage. In severe infestations, the plant may have stunted growth and dieback. Spider mites can be eliminated by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are white, cotton-like insects that accumulate on the undersides of leaves and stems. They can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. Applying rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap can control the spread of mealybugs.
3. Scale Insects: These small, oval-shaped pests can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause yellow spots and leaf drop. Rubbing alcohol and insecticidal soap can help to remove the scales and kill them.
Diseases
1. Black Rot: Black rot is a fungal disease that can be identified by blackened, dead tissue on the foliage. The disease can spread quickly and kill the entire plant. Remove all the infected parts and spray the plant with a fungicide to prevent further spread.
2. Leaf Spots: Leaf spots are caused by fungal pathogens that create brown or black spots on the leaves. The spots can be circular or irregularly shaped. Remove all the infected leaves and spray a fungicide on the plant to prevent further spread.
3. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the roots of the plant. The symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, ensure that the potting mix is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Overall, it's important to keep a close eye on your Angraecum brevicornus Summerh. plant and address any pest or disease issues as soon as possible. Regular maintenance and proper care can minimize the risk of infestations or infections.
