Origin
Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. is a type of orchid belonging to the family Orchidaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, including Angola, Cameroon, Gabon, and Nigeria.
Common Names
Angraecum globulosocalcaratum is commonly known as the Round-Spurred Angraecum, Ball-Spurred Angraecum, or Club-Spurred Angraecum.
Uses
The plant is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its striking and unique appearance, making it a popular choice for indoor or outdoor gardens. Some species of Angraecum globulosocalcaratum have a sweet fragrance that is most potent during the night. It is used for perfumes and is believed to have medicinal properties.
General Appearance
The Angraecum globulosocalcaratum is a unique orchid that has a round spur at the base of the lip. The plant produces long, light green leaves that grow in a rosette, and a long, thin stem that can reach up to 20 inches long. The flowers are white or cream-colored, with a diameter of about 1 inch and a length of about 2 inches. They are typically arranged in clusters of 5 to 15 and have a white, highly fragrant lip with a round spur at the base, which gives the plant its name. The plant blooms during the summer and fall, and the flowers can last up to several weeks before wilting.
Light Requirements
Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. requires bright, indirect light to thrive. It is best grown in an area with a partially shaded environment to avoid scorching the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
These plants prefer temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and they can tolerate up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit temperature for short periods. They need cooler temperatures at night, somewhere around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, to facilitate flowering.
Watering Requirements
Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering.
Soil Requirements
These orchids prefer a well-draining soil that is high in organic matter, such as a mixture of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. The soil should have good aeration to prevent water from collecting around the plant roots.
Cultivation Methods for Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild.
Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. can be cultivated in a pot or in a hanging basket. It requires a well-draining, coarse medium such as orchid bark, sphagnum moss, or a combination of both. Repotting should be done every 2-3 years or as needed, preferably after the plant has finished flowering.
The plant prefers bright, indirect light and temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C).
Watering Needs for Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild.
The watering needs of Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. depend on the type of medium used. If orchid bark is used, the plant should be watered when the medium is almost dry. If sphagnum moss is used, the plant should be watered when the moss feels slightly dry to the touch. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
Regular misting can also be beneficial for the plant, especially in drier environments.
Fertilization for Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild.
Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring to fall) with a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength. It is important to flush the medium with water every 4-6 weeks to prevent the buildup of fertilizer salts.
Fertilization should be reduced or stopped during the winter months when growth slows down.
Pruning for Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild.
Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. does not require heavy pruning. Any dead, yellow, or brown leaves should be removed to maintain the plant's appearance and prevent the spread of potential pathogens.
If the plant becomes too large for its pot or basket, it can be divided during repotting. Each division should have at least 3-4 healthy pseudobulbs and a good root system.
Propagation of Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild.
Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. is a rare and indigenous orchid found in the tropical rainforests of Central and West Africa. They grow in highly humid and shaded environments, making it a bit challenging to cultivate them artificially. However, you can propagate this plant through various methods:
Division of Roots
The most common method of propagating Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. is through root division. It requires cutting the plant's roots carefully and separating the healthy portions. Make sure every division has at least one pseudobulb, which aids in the growth of a new plant. You can then plant each division into appropriate potting soil to grow.
Keiki Production
Another way of propagating Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. is through Keiki production. A Keiki is an offshoot, small plantlet, that emerges from the mother plant's stem or base. Once you notice the Keiki, wait until it develops a robust root system, then cut it off and plant it in a suitable potting mix. This method is favorable because the Keiki already has an established root system, making it easier to cultivate it.
Tissue Culture Propagation
Lastly, Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. can be propagated through tissue culture. This method is beneficial for producing a large quantity of plants, but it requires special laboratory skills and equipment. The steps involve selecting a small tissue sample, placing it in a nutrient-rich medium with appropriate hormones, and letting it grow under laboratory conditions. Once it develops into a plantlet, you can plant it in an appropriate medium suitable for growth.
Disease Management for Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild.
Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. is susceptible to various diseases. It is crucial to identify these diseases and take appropriate measures to manage them.
One of the common diseases that affect this plant is fungal leaf spots. Symptoms include yellow spots on leaves, which later turn to brown or black. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and keep the plant dry by avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides such as copper-based sprays can also be used as preventative measures.
Another disease that affects Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild is root rot. This is caused by pathogens such as Phytophthora and Pythium. Symptoms of root rot include the wilting of leaves and a soft brown discoloration of roots. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and provide good drainage. Fungicides such as chlorothalonil can also be used to manage root rot.
Pest Management for Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild.
Several pests also affect Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant if not managed effectively.
One of the common pests that affect this plant is mealybugs. Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that secrete a white, powdery substance. They suck sap from leaves, causing them to yellow and wilt. To manage mealybugs, wipe off infestations with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil as preventative measures.
Spider mites are also a common pest that affects this plant. These are tiny insects that suck sap from leaves, causing yellowing and stippling. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to dislodge them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil as preventative measures.
Scale insects are another pest that affects Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. These are small, immobile insects that secrete a waxy substance on leaves. They suck sap from leaves, causing yellowing and premature leaf drop. To manage scale insects, wipe them off the plant with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil as preventative measures.
Regular monitoring of the plant for pests and diseases is crucial for the healthy growth of Angraecum globulosocalcaratum De Wild. Early detection and appropriate management measures can help prevent significant damage to the plant.
