Overview
Angraecum distichum Lindl., also known as the two-rowed Angraecum or African Star Orchid, is a unique and beautiful orchid species native to the African continent. It belongs to the family of orchids known as Vandeae and is commonly found growing in Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. This plant is valued for its ornamental beauty and is often used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties.
Appearance
The Angraecum distichum Lindl. features leathery, narrow leaves that grow to about 10-15 cm long. The mature plant can reach a height of about 30-35 cm and has a rhizomatous stem that attaches to the bark of a tree. The plant produces long and thin flowering stems that can produce up to 20 fragrant flowers at a time. The flowers are between 3-5 cm in size and are white or cream in color, featuring a long, thin spur.
Common Names
The Angraecum distichum Lindl. is known by various common names, including the two-rowed Angraecum, African Star Orchid, Sweet-scented Angraecum, and Madagascar Star Orchid.
Uses
The Angraecum distichum Lindl. is primarily grown for its ornamental value and is a popular plant for collectors and garden enthusiasts. The plant's unique and beautiful flowers make it an attractive addition to any garden. In traditional medicine, the plant's roots are used to make a decoction that is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The decoction is also used to treat sore throats and coughs. The leaves of the plant are traditionally used to treat skin irritations caused by insect bites or stings.
Overall, Angraecum distichum Lindl. is a unique and beautiful plant species that offers both ornamental value and medicinal benefits.
Light Requirements
Angraecum distichum Lindl. prefers moderate to bright indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and damage the plant. Therefore, it is ideal to place the plant near a bright window with sheer curtains or on a shaded patio. If grown indoors, fluorescent lights or LED grow lights can also be used to provide adequate light.
Temperature Requirements
Angraecum distichum Lindl. originates from tropical regions of Madagascar and prefers warm temperatures between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) during the day and cooler temperatures between 60°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C) at night. It is essential to avoid sudden drops in temperature, which can damage the plant. Therefore, it is best to keep the plant away from drafty areas, air conditioning vents, or heating sources.
Humidity Requirements
Angraecum distichum Lindl. requires high humidity levels of around 70% to 80%. The plant can be grown in a terrarium or placed on a water-filled tray to increase the humidity levels. It is also beneficial to mist the leaves and roots with water regularly to prevent dehydration.
Soil Requirements
Angraecum distichum Lindl. is an epiphytic orchid that grows on trees in its natural habitat. Therefore, it requires a well-draining medium that mimics the porous environment of bark or a tree branch. A suitable potting mix can be made by combining bark chips, sphagnum moss, perlite, and charcoal. The mix should be moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation
Angraecum distichum Lindl. is a type of epiphytic orchid that can be grown indoors or outdoors. As an epiphyte, it thrives on a substrate or another plant's bark, making it perfect for mounting on a tree trunk or other supporting structure.
The ideal location for Angraecum distichum cultivation is an area with partial sunlight that does not receive any direct sunlight. Shade cloth can be used to protect the plant from excessive sunlight, especially during the hottest times of the day. Ideally, temperatures should range from 60-85°F.
Watering Needs
Angraecum distichum Lindl. requires moderate and consistent watering. The watering frequency will vary depending on the humidity, temperature, and amount of light the plant is receiving. Typically, watering every three to five days is sufficient, but in dryer environments, it may require more frequent watering. It's important to avoid watering the plant too often, as this can cause the roots to rot.
Fertilization
Angraecum distichum Lindl. requires regular fertilization to keep the plant healthy and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20, and dilute to half-strength. Apply the fertilizer every three weeks during the growing season and reduce to monthly fertilization during the dormant season.
Pruning
Pruning is not typically necessary for Angraecum distichum Lindl. However, it's important to remove dead or dying leaves and flowers regularly. Doing so will prevent any fungal infections from spreading and keep the plant looking neat and tidy.
Propagation of Angraecum distichum Lindl.
Propagating Angraecum distichum Lindl. can be done through different methods, which include:
Division
Dividing mature plants is a common propagation technique used for Angraecum distichum Lindl. To divide the plant, separate the pseudobulb clumps with roots, ensuring that each division has at least three pseudobulbs. Plant the divisions in pots using well-draining soil, and keep them in a warm, humid environment.
Seed propagation
Angraecum distichum Lindl. can be propagated from seed, which can be gathered from mature seed pods. Air-dry the seed pods for a few days before gently opening them to collect the seeds. Sow the seeds in a mixture of sphagnum moss and perlite, and keep them in a warm humid environment. It can take up to three months for the germination process to start. Once the seedlings are a few months old, they can be transplanted to individual pots.
Meristem propagation
Meristem propagation is a more advanced propagation technique that involves taking a small portion of the plant tissue and growing it in vitro. This method can be used to propagate Angraecum distichum Lindl. quickly and ensure that the resulting plants are disease-free.
Propagation of Angraecum distichum Lindl. can be done through division, seed propagation, or meristem propagation. Each method has its own set of requirements and challenges, so it's essential to choose the method that works best for you and your resources.
Disease and Pest Management for Angraecum distichum Lindl.
Angraecum distichum Lindl. is a beautiful orchid plant that requires proper attention and care to keep it healthy and free from diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections can cause brown spots and lesions on the leaves and stems of the Angraecum distichum plant. To manage bacterial infections, prune the infected parts of the plant and apply copper-based fungicides on the affected areas.
Fungal Infections: Fungal infections can cause soft, mushy spots on the leaves of the Angraecum distichum plant, along with yellowing and wilting. To manage fungal infections, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply fungicides that contain copper or sulfur.
Viral Infections: Viral infections can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves in the Angraecum distichum plant. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral infections. To manage viral infections, remove the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly to avoid spreading the virus.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are common pests that might infest the Angraecum distichum plant. These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and the formation of webbing. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil on the affected areas.
Scale Insects: Scale insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves in the Angraecum distichum plant. They appear as small bumps on the leaves, stems or flowers of the plant. To manage scale insects, apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap on the affected areas, and clean the plant with a soft cloth to remove any visible scales.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that appear as white, cottony masses on the leaves and stems of the Angraecum distichum plant. They can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil on the affected areas.
Regularly inspecting and caring for your Angraecum distichum plant can keep it healthy and free from diseases and pests. Maintaining a clean environment, proper humidity, and good ventilation can help prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests in the first place.
