Origin
Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. is a species of orchid native to tropical Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Gabon, and the Congo basin. It is mostly found in wet lowland forests, on small trees, and in various habitats at low altitudes of around 300 to 1000 meters.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Long-tailed Angraecum or the Slender Angraecum due to its thin, elongated leaves and flowers. In Gabon, it is also referred to as 'Bokondri'.
Uses
The Angraecum subcylindricum has a number of uses, particularly in traditional medicine. It is believed that the leaves and roots contain medicinal properties that can be used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and stomach problems. The plant is also used in Gabonese rituals as a charm to ward off evil spirits.
General Appearance
The Angraecum subcylindricum is an epiphytic plant, meaning it grows on other plants without harming them. It has thin and elongated leaves, measuring up to 25 cm long and 3 cm wide. The plant produces beautiful, white flowers that grow to about 5cm long, forming clusters of up to 12 flowers. These flowers have a long spur at the back, giving them the appearance of having a long tail. The Angraecum subcylindricum is a delicate yet striking plant that can add a touch of elegance to any garden or indoor space.
Light Requirements
Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. is an epiphytic plant that needs moderate shade. It does not tolerate direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. The plant grows well under the light conditions generated by fluorescent lamps. It requires approximately 70-80% shading during hot and sunny days.
Temperature Requirements
The typical temperature range for growing Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. is between 15-30°C. The plant thrives in warm, humid environments. Low temperatures can hamper growth, and the plant may experience tissue damage. During the day, the plant can tolerate temperatures up to 28°C, while at night, it can withstand temperatures as low as 15°C. The plant may suffer growth stunting if the temperature is below this range.
Soil Requirements
Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. grows best in loose, well-draining soil. The plant requires a mixture of humus and inorganic materials, such as bark and perlite. The ideal pH of the soil for this plant is 5-6.5. The plant requires moist soil but not waterlogged. The soil mixture should retain enough moisture while also allowing for sufficient water drainage. Overwatering can lead to root rot and damage the plant.
Cultivation Methods
The Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. plant is a beautiful orchid that requires proper care and cultivation to thrive. This plant should be grown in an orchid mix or a specialized growing medium that provides sufficient drainage. It can be grown either in a pot or mounted on a piece of bark or wood.
Proper light conditions are crucial for the growth of this plant. It should be kept in partial shade, away from direct sunlight. The temperature range for this plant should be between 55°F to 85°F, and it requires high humidity levels.
Watering Needs
This plant requires regular watering to keep it healthy. Watering should be done thoroughly, but ensure that the potting medium is not waterlogged. Ideally, you should water the plant when the potting medium feels slightly dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is important to avoid it.
During the growing season, the Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. plant requires more water, and this should be reduced during the dormant period. It is important to use room temperature water when watering this plant because cold water can shock the roots.
Fertilization
The Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 20-20-20 is ideal for this plant. Fertilizer should be applied at half strength once every two weeks to avoid fertilizer burn.
Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant period because it requires less nutrition. Always water the plant before applying fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning is an important cultivation practice that helps to keep the Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. plant healthy and in good condition. It is recommended to prune the plant after flowering to encourage new growth.
When pruning, remove any dead or yellow leaves and cut back the flowering stem to the base of the plant. This will help to stimulate new growth and improve the overall appearance of the plant.
Propagation of Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild.
Propagation of Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. can be carried out via several methods, which include:
Propagation through Seed
The most viable method of propagating Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. is through the use of seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature seed pods and sown in a well-draining medium. Orchid mix, sphagnum moss, or a mix of the two are suitable options. The pots should be kept in a warm, humid location with bright indirect light.
It may take several months for the seeds to germinate, and initial growth may be slow. Care should be taken when watering to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to rot. Once the seedlings have developed several leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots with a suitable orchid mix and fertilized using a balanced orchid fertilizer.
Propagation through Division
Another method of propagating Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. is through the division of mature plants. This method is most effective when the plant has developed several pseudobulbs and is actively growing. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the pseudobulbs, ensuring that each division has a healthy root system attached. Each division can be potted up separately in a suitable orchid mix and fertilized regularly.
Propagation through Keiki
Propagation through keiki, or small plantlets that grow from the stem of the mother plant, is also possible for Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. This method is less reliable than seed or division propagation, but it can be successful if the keiki is healthy and has a strong root system. Once the keiki has developed its own set of roots, it can be carefully separated from the mother plant and potted up separately in a suitable orchid mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild.
Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. is a species of orchid that is relatively resistant to diseases and pests when grown in a suitable environment. However, some common diseases and pests can affect the plant, which can cause stunted growth, discoloration, or even death. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Fungal infections: Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. plant is susceptible to fungal infections like root rot, stem rot, and leaf spot. These infections can cause the plant's leaves to turn yellow, wilt, and eventually die. To manage fungal infections, ensure the plant is not overwatered and receives good air circulation. Remove and destroy any infected plant parts and treat the remaining plant with a fungicide.
2. Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections can occur in Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. and can cause black rot on the leaves and stems, and brown spots on the leaves. To manage bacterial infections, ensure the plant is in a well-ventilated area. Remove and dispose of any affected plant parts, and treat the remaining plant with a bactericide.
Pests
1. Spider mites: Spider mites can cause the plant's leaves to turn yellow and have webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, ensure that the plant is in a well-ventilated area and high humidity. Remove and destroy any infected plant parts and treat the remaining plant with a miticide.
2. Scale insects: Scale insects can appear on the plant as small, raised bumps and secrete a sticky substance that can attract ants and other insects. To manage scale insects, use a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol to remove the pests from the plant or use an insecticidal soap.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, Angraecum subcylindricum De Wild. can grow and thrive in a healthy environment, ensuring that the plant remains beautiful for years to come.
