Overview of Angraecum Humile Auct.
Angraecum humile auct. is a species of orchid found in eastern Africa, including Tanzania, Madagascar, and Reunion Island.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the “Dwarf Angraecum” or “Humile Orchid.”
Appearance
The dwarf angraecum is a small, epiphytic orchid that appears similar to the common moth orchid. Its leaves are thin, and its stem is yellowish. This orchid produces numerous white flowers that have a yellow-green hue towards the base.
Uses
In its native habitat, Angraecum humile auct. serves as an ornamental plant and is highly valued among collectors and plant enthusiasts. Its fragrant flowers are also used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments.
The plant is regarded as quite hardy and is often grown in a pot with a well-draining medium that allows air circulation around its roots.
Light Requirements
Angraecum humile auct. requires bright, indirect light that mimics the conditions of its native tropical environment. The plant can tolerate some direct sunlight earlier or later in the day, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will scorch the leaves. It is recommended to place the plant near a south or east-facing window to receive the necessary amount of light.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Angraecum humile auct. is between 60-80°F (15-27°C) during the day and between 50-60°F (10-15°C) at night. The plant can tolerate some temperature fluctuations, but it is important to avoid extreme temperature changes. Keep the plant away from drafty windows or air conditioning units that can quickly drop the temperature.
Humidity Requirements
As a tropical plant, Angraecum humile auct. requires moderate to high humidity levels between 50-80%. You can achieve this level of humidity by placing a humidifier near the plant, misting the leaves regularly, or placing the plant on a tray filled with moist pebbles. Avoid placing the plant near any sources of dry air such as heating or air conditioning vents.
Soil and Watering Requirements
Angraecum humile auct. is an epiphyte and grows best in a well-draining soil mixture that does not hold excess moisture. A recommended mixture includes fine bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. The plant requires regular watering, but it is important to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and damage the plant's health.
Cultivation methods
Angraecum humile auct. is an orchid species that is best grown in a greenhouse or under indoor conditions where the environment can be controlled to mimic its natural habitat. These orchids prefer warm, humid conditions and should be grown in bright, indirect light. For best results, it is recommended to grow Angraecum humile auct. in a well-draining potting medium, such as bark or sphagnum moss. Repot the orchid every two years or as needed, taking care not to damage the fragile roots.Watering needs
Angraecum humile auct. requires consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged. Water your orchid when the potting medium begins to dry out, but do not allow it to completely dry between watering. These orchids prefer distilled or rainwater, as tap water may contain minerals that can damage the roots.Fertilization
Angraecum humile auct. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, which is typically from spring to summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two weeks. Do not fertilize during the dormant season, which is typically from fall to winter.Pruning
Pruning Angraecum humile auct. is not necessary and can damage the plant. However, if you notice any dead, damaged, or diseased growth, remove it promptly to prevent it from spreading and affecting the health of your orchid. In conclusion, if you follow these guidelines for cultivating Angraecum humile auct., your orchid will thrive and reward you with its beautiful flowers.Propagation of Angraecum humile auct.
Angraecum humile auct. is best propagated through division or stem cuttings.
Propagation through Division
Division involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and foliage. This is generally done during repotting, either in the spring or after flowering.
To divide Angraecum humile auct., carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root mass into smaller sections using a sharp, clean knife or scissors. Each section should have at least one healthy pseudobulb with roots and new growth.
Plant each new division into clean, well-draining orchid mix and provide it with the same care as the mother plant.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from Angraecum humile auct. during the growing season, when the plant is actively producing new growth.
To take stem cuttings, select a healthy stem with new growth and snip it off from the main plant. Then, take each cutting and remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a small container filled with orchid mix.
Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid location with bright, indirect light. As the new growth appears, regularly mist the cuttings to keep them hydrated.
Once new growth has reached a height of a few inches, the cutting can be repotted into a larger pot.
Disease and Pest Management for Angraecum humile auct.
As with any plant, Angraecum humile auct. is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests. Here is a list of some common ones along with suggested ways to manage them:
Diseases
Black rot: This fungus infects the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to turn black and eventually die. To manage this disease, remove infected parts of the plant and spray with a fungicide.
Leaf spot: This disease causes brownish spots on the leaves of the plant. Increasing air circulation around the plant and removing infected leaves can help manage the disease. Fungicides may also be effective.
Bacterial soft rot: This disease causes mushy, blackened tissue on the plant. It is often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To manage the disease, improve drainage and decrease watering. Infected parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed.
Pests
Scale insects: These pests can be identified by the small, waxy bumps that they leave on the plant. They can be controlled by washing the plant with soapy water or using an insecticide.
Mites: These tiny pests are difficult to see but can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves. They can be managed with miticides.
Caterpillars: These insects can chew through the leaves of the plant. They can be picked off by hand or controlled with insecticides.
By being vigilant and taking preventative measures, you can help keep Angraecum humile auct. healthy and disease-free.
