Origin
Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae (Rendle) Senghas & P.J.Cribb is a species of orchid that is endemic to the African country of Kenya. Specifically, it is found in the coastal forests of Kenya, particularly in the Gedi Forest.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as the Giryama Angraecum or the Giryama Jewel Orchid. The name "Giryama" references the ethnic group indigenous to the area where this orchid is found.
Uses
The Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae is highly valued as an ornamental plant. It is often grown by orchid enthusiasts around the world, because of its unique appearance and its rarity in the wild. These plants are also used in various traditional medicines in Africa, for the treatment of a variety of ailments such as fever and coughs.
General Appearance
Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae is a relatively small orchid, typically growing to only 20-30 centimeters in height. It produces small, white flowers that are between 1.5 and 2.5 centimeters in diameter. The petals and sepals are long and narrow, giving them a slightly "spidery" appearance. The lip of the flower is much wider and more rounded than the petals, and is often tinged with green or yellow. The plant itself has narrow, elongated leaves that are around 10-12 centimeters long, and are a dark green color.
Light Requirements
Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae requires bright but indirect light to thrive. It can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. It is best to place the plant near a bright window with sheer curtains to filter the light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae is between 65°F and 85°F (18°C and 29°C). It thrives in warm and humid conditions. It is important to provide consistent temperatures as drastic temperature fluctuations can harm the plant.
Soil Requirements
Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae does not require soil to grow. It is an epiphytic orchid that grows on trees or rocks in its native habitat. However, it can be planted in a well-draining and porous mediums such as orchid bark, sphagnum moss, or a mixture of the two. It is important to avoid using soil or potting mix as it can retain too much water and suffocate the roots.
Cultivation Methods:
Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae (Rendle) Senghas & P.J.Cribb is an epiphytic orchid that grows on hardwood trees. It needs a well-draining medium that allows air circulation around the roots. You can use a mixture of fir bark, sphagnum moss, perlite, and charcoal to grow the orchid. The plant prefers humid conditions, so ensure that you provide it with high humidity levels between 50% to 80% at all times.
Watering Needs:
Watering the Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae (Rendle) Senghas & P.J.Cribb orchid requires a little attention. You should water the plant once a week during the growing season and reduce the watering to twice a month during the dormant phase. Ensure that you do not wet the orchid's leaves as this can lead to fungal infections. Instead, water the orchid's roots directly and allow the excess water to drain off.
Fertilization:
The Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae (Rendle) Senghas & P.J.Cribb orchid requires fertilization to promote healthy growth and bloom. You can use a balanced fertilizer, such as 20-20-20 or 10-10-10, every other week during the growing season. Avoid using a high-nitrogen fertilizer as this can lead to leaf damage and poor flowering. Fertilize the orchid when the roots are moist to prevent root burn.
Pruning:
Pruning the Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae (Rendle) Senghas & P.J.Cribb orchid involves removing dead or damaged leaves and roots. You can use a sterile pair of scissors to cut off any unhealthy roots. Additionally, remove any spent blooms to promote new growth and flowering. Prune the orchid after it has finished blooming and avoid pruning during the dormant period.
Propagation of Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae
Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae, commonly known as the East African Angraecum, is a species of epiphytic orchid that is endemic to Kenya. It is a stunning plant that produces white fragrant flowers. Propagating this plant can be done through different methods, which are outlined below.
Propagation through Seed
Propagation of Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae through seeds is a reliable and common method. However, it can be a bit challenging as the orchid's seeds are tiny and dust-like, making them hard to handle. The seeds require a sterile environment and specific conditions for growth. Thus, it is essential to follow a strict protocol when propagating through seed.
Firstly, the seeds must be harvested when they are fully mature and sown as soon as possible. Sterilize the seeds in a bleach solution (1:10) for 10-15 minutes and then rinse them several times with sterile water. Then, place the seeds in a sterile flask containing the appropriate nutrient agar medium and incubate in a dark, warm place. After about six months, the seeds should germinate, and the plants can be carefully transplanted into a suitable potting medium.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division is another way to increase the number of Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae plants. This method involves separating mature plants into smaller sections, with each section having viable roots and pseudobulbs. It is essential to make sure that each section has at least three pseudobulbs to ensure success. The best time for division is during the plant's growing season.
Once the division is done, the new plants should be allowed to grow for some time before being potted separately. The potting medium should be well-draining and suitable for orchid growth, such as fir bark or sphagnum moss.
Propagation through Keiki Production
Keiki production is a relatively easy method of propagating Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae. Keikis are small plantlets that grow on the sides of mature plants, and they can be separated from the parent plant and potted into a new container to produce a new plant. This method is best done during the plant's active growth phase.
To propagate through keiki production, you should wait until the keiki is halfway the size of the parent plant. Then, gently cut it away from the parent plant using a sterile blade. The keiki should then be potted in a suitable potting medium and left to grow.
Propagation of Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae can be done through various methods such as division, keiki production, and seed propagation. Pick a method that works best for you, and with the right conditions, you can increase the number of these beautiful plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae (Rendle) Senghas & P.J.Cribb
Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae (Rendle) Senghas & P.J.Cribb is a beautiful orchid that requires proper disease and pest management to yield the best results. The following are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and some of the ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that can affect Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae (Rendle) Senghas & P.J.Cribb is black rot, which is caused by a bacterium known as Erwinia carotovora. The disease is characterized by a soft rot that affects the leaves and pseudobulbs. To manage this disease, it is essential to ensure proper hygiene by removing and destroying the affected plant parts. Proper watering practices should also be observed, ensuring no waterlogging of the plant roots.
Another common disease is powdery mildew, which is caused by the fungus Oidium. The disease is characterized by powdery white growth on the leaves and flowers, leading to their withering. To prevent powdery mildew, it is advisable to ensure proper ventilation by providing enough space between the plants and avoiding overcrowding. Fungicides can also be used to manage this disease.
Common Pests
One of the common pests that can affect Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae (Rendle) Senghas & P.J.Cribb is spider mites. These pests are characterized by webbing on the plant leaves, yellowing, and withering. To manage spider mites, it is advisable to ensure proper humidity levels by misting the plants regularly and ensuring proper ventilation. Pesticides can also be used, but caution should be taken to avoid damaging the plant.
Another common pest is the mealybug, characterized by cottony white masses under the leaves and nodes. To manage mealybugs, it is essential to remove and discard any affected plant parts and use pesticides to control the pests. Regular checking and scouting are also crucial to detect any infestations early and take appropriate action.
In conclusion, proper disease and pest management are essential for the success of Angraecum eburneum Bory subsp. giryamae (Rendle) Senghas & P.J.Cribb. It is essential to observe proper hygiene, watering practices, and pest control measures to prevent diseases and pests from affecting the plant's health and quality.
