Origin and Common Names
Angraecum wakefieldii Rolfe, also known as the Wakefield's Angraecum, is a species of orchid that is endemic to Madagascar. It was first discovered in 1890 by botanist George Wakefield, who named it after himself.
General Appearance
The Wakefield's Angraecum is a small epiphytic orchid that typically grows to be around 10-15 centimeters in height. Its slender stem supports several oblong-shaped, leathery leaves that are 7-12 centimeters long and 1-4 centimeters wide. The plant also produces slender, beige-colored roots that are used to anchor it to tree bark or rocks.
When it blooms, the Wakefield's Angraecum produces striking, pure white flowers that are roughly 4 centimeters in diameter. The flowers have a distinctive spur at the base of the petals which contains nectar, attracting its pollinators. It releases its pleasant scent at night to attract its pollinators- hawkmoths. The sepals and petals that are white while the lip is decorated with yellow spots with a greenish stripe down the middle.
Uses
The Wakefield's Angraecum is a popular ornamental plant, prized for its strikingly beautiful and fragrant flowers. Because of its small size and epiphytic nature, the Wakefield's Angraecum is often grown in hanging baskets and terrariums. It is not used for medicinal or any other purposes.
Light Requirements
Angraecum wakefieldii thrives in bright but indirect light. It is recommended to place the plant in an east or west-facing window where it can get sunlight for at least 4 hours a day. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Angraecum wakefieldii is between 60°F to 80°F (15.5°C to 26.7°C). It is important to avoid fluctuations in temperature as this can cause stress to the plant. Nighttime temperatures should not drop below 50°F (10°C) as this can harm the plant.
Humidity Requirements
As with most plants in the Orchid family, Angraecum wakefieldii requires high humidity levels to thrive. The relative humidity should be between 50% and 80%. Placing a humidifier near the plant or misting it regularly can help create the ideal humidity levels.
Soil Requirements
Angraecum wakefieldii requires a well-draining and moisture-retaining soil mix. A mixture of coarse bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss can be used to create a suitable soil mix. Repotting should be done every 1-2 years to ensure that the plant has fresh soil and adequate space for growth.
Cultivation Methods
Angraecum wakefieldii Rolfe, also known as the Midnight orchid, is predominantly a lithophytic orchid, which means it grows on rocks and boulders in nature. In cultivation, this orchid can be grown in a well-draining mix of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss. It prefers bright, filtered light, but not direct sunlight. A temperature range of 60°F to 80°F during the day and 50°F to 60°F at night is ideal. This orchid also requires high humidity levels, around 60-70%.
Watering Needs
This orchid should be watered regularly, approximately once a week. When watering, ensure that the potting mix is thoroughly wet. When watering, avoid getting water on the leaves or crown, as this can contribute to rot. In addition, ensure that the potting mix is never waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
During the growing season (spring and summer), this orchid should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced orchid fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength. In the dormant season (fall and winter), fertilization can be reduced to once a month. Be sure to leach the potting mix every third or fourth watering to prevent buildup of fertilizer salts.
Pruning
To encourage healthy growth and promote flowering, it's recommended to prune Angraecum wakefieldii Rolfe after flowering. This involves cutting back the flower stem to just above a node where new growth can emerge. Additionally, any yellowing or dead leaves should be removed to keep the plant healthy and vibrant.
Propagation of Angraecum wakefieldii Rolfe
Angraecum wakefieldii Rolfe, commonly known as the Satiny Leaf Angraecum, is a challenging orchid to grow, and propagating it requires special attention. The plant is endemic to Madagascar's moist forests and is a species of epiphytic orchids, which means it grows on trees and often in shady areas.
Propagation by Division
Division is the easiest way to propagate Angraecum wakefieldii. It is advisable to divide the plant after it has finished flowering. Carefully remove the plant from the pot and gently separate the individual growths. Each cutting should have at least three pseudobulbs to ensure that it has enough stored energy to produce a new plant. Plant the divisions in appropriate orchid potting mix and provide them with the same growing conditions as mature plants. Water the newly propagated plants sparingly and increase watering as the plants start to grow.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation from seed is also possible but more challenging. To propagate Angraecum wakefieldii from seed, first, obtain the seed pods from a mature plant. The seed pods are long and slender and will dry out after some time. When ready, remove the seeds and clean them by soaking them in water. Then, sow the seeds in a suitable medium - an equal mixture of sphagnum moss and perlite is ideal. Keep the soil warm and evenly moist, and the seeds should germinate in a few weeks. It is vital to keep the humidity level high to prevent the seedlings from drying up. Then, transplant the seedlings to individual pots and provide them with the same care as mature plants.
Propagation by Keiki
Propagation by Keiki is common in Angraecum orchids. Keikis are baby plants that develop on the flower scape, often near the top of a mature plant. They can be left to grow on the mother plant or removed and potted separately once they have roots large enough to support themselves. Cut the Keiki from the mother plant using a clean, sterile knife or scissors. Then, plant the Keiki in an appropriate orchid potting mix, keep it warm and shady, and water it with care.
Propagation of Angraecum wakefieldii requires careful attention to ensure successful growth. Each propagation method requires different considerations to improve the chances of success. With patience and the proper care, even a novice plant parent can propagate the Satiny Leaf Angraecum.
Disease and Pest Management for Angraecum wakefieldii Rolfe
Angraecum wakefieldii Rolfe, commonly known as the Wakefield's Angraecum, is a beautiful orchid species that requires proper care and maintenance to thrive. One of the essential elements of care is disease and pest management. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing, dark spots, and browning. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and adopt a prevention strategy. Avoid overhead irrigation, improve air circulation, and keep the plant's foliage dry.
2. Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the roots of the plant, causing them to turn brown and mushy. To manage root rot, identify the cause of the problem, usually overwatering or poor drainage. Reduce watering frequency, repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil, and ensure proper ventilation.
Pests
1. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that thrive in hot, dry environments. They feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing, webbing, and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, wash the plant's foliage with mild soap and water, introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, and ensure proper air circulation.
2. Scale insects: Scale insects are small, round pests that attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves, feeding on its sap. They cause yellowing, wilting, and death of the plant. To manage scale insects, remove the bugs manually, wash the plant's foliage with mild soap and water, and introduce natural predators like parasitic wasps.
Apart from the above diseases and pests, Angraecum wakefieldii Rolfe can also suffer from mealybugs, aphids, and fungal infections. It is crucial to maintain proper hygiene, sanitation practices, and timely treatment to prevent the spread and recurrence of such issues.
