Aspidoglossum Ovalifolium (schltr.) Kupicha

Overview of Aspidoglossum ovalifolium

Aspidoglossum ovalifolium is a species of orchid native to the tropical rainforests of Madagascar, Africa. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae and the subfamily Epidendroideae. This orchid is also known by its synonym names Aeranthes ovalifolia and Angraecum ovalifolium. The plant was first described in 1918 by Schlechter, and was later placed in the genus Aspidoglossum by Kupicha in 1971.

General appearance

Aspidoglossum ovalifolium is an epiphytic orchid, which means it grows on the surface of other plants instead of in the soil. This orchid produces a single, wiry stem that can grow up to 20 centimeters long. It has elliptic to ovate shaped leaves, which can reach a length of 6-12 cm and a width of 3-4 cm. The inflorescence is long and slender, and can grow up to 50 centimeters long. Each inflorescence may bear up to 30 flowers that are around 5.5-6 cm wide.

Flowers are the defining feature of Aspidoglossum ovalifolium. They are a vibrant, almost neon, green colour, with a small, bright yellow spot at the base of each petal. The petals and sepals are long and thin, forming a fan shape around the small central column. The lip of each flower is lyrate, meaning it is lobed like a lyre or harp, and is white with green veins.

Common names

Aspidoglossum ovalifolium is commonly known as the Green Orchid. In Madagascar, where the plant is native, it is called 'Tsitatsiatsia', which means 'green flowers' in the language of Malagasy.

Uses

Aspidoglossum ovalifolium is mainly used as an ornamental plant due to the striking appearance of its green flowers. In its native Madagascar, it is also used as a medicinal plant to treat various ailments. The sap from the plant is used to reduce inflammation, and the leaves can be used to treat skin irritation.

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Light Requirements

The Aspidoglossum ovalifolium plant prefers bright but indirect light. It is ideal to place it in a room that receives adequate sunshine, but be sure to avoid direct sunlight as it can cause harm to the plant. Shaded light effectively grows the plant, but it may produce fewer blooms.

Temperature Requirements

The Aspidoglossum ovalifolium thrives in moderate temperatures. It requires a minimum temperature of 55°F (12°C) for healthy growth and blooms ideally between 65°F (18°C) and 80°F (27°C). Try to shield the plant from cold, harsh winds as it is not frost hardy.

Soil Requirements

Aspidoglossum ovalifolium grows in rich, well-draining soil that is kept damp but not waterlogged. Standard orchid mix soil or a combination of small bark chips and perlite creates a suitable growing medium. It is recommended to add organic fertilizer at least once a month.

Cultivation Methods

Aspidoglossum ovalifolium (Schltr.) Kupicha is a terrestrial orchid species that thrives well under indirect light or partial shade conditions. It needs well-draining soil, preferably a mix of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite or coarse sand. This plant can be propagated through division, where you separate the pseudobulbs and pot them individually, ensuring each segment has at least two leaves. It is also essential to note that this orchid species is sensitive to temperature fluctuations and requires a stable temperature to grow correctly.

Watering Needs

The watering requirements of Aspidoglossum ovalifolium (Schltr.) Kupicha vary depending on the season and environmental conditions. During hot and dry periods, you need to water the plant regularly, ensuring the potting medium does not dry out completely. However, in the wet season or cooler periods, it is vital to reduce watering or let the potting medium dry out completely in between waterings. Avoid pouring water directly onto the pseudobulbs or foliage, and always water the plant during the early mornings or late afternoons to prevent waterlogging or scorching.

Fertilization

Aspidoglossum ovalifolium (Schltr.) Kupicha requires regular fertilization to provide sufficient nutrients for growth and flowering. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted according to the manufacturer's instructions, and apply it every two to three weeks during active growth. Reduce the frequency of fertilization during the dormant season or winter months, and always flush the potting medium with clean water to prevent salt accumulation.

Pruning

Pruning Aspidoglossum ovalifolium (Schltr.) Kupicha is essential to maintain the plant's shape, size, and overall health. You can sterilize a pair of sharp scissors or pruning shears and trim off any dead, yellowed, or damaged foliage or pseudobulbs. Removing the spent flower spikes also promotes new growth and budding for subsequent blooms. Avoid cutting too close to the base as this can cause damage to the rhizome, leading to potential infection or rot.

Propagation of Aspidoglossum ovalifolium

Aspidoglossum ovalifolium is a terrestrial, tuberous orchid found in tropical Africa. It is a small-sized plant that grows up to 30 centimeters tall, with an inflorescence of small, white flowers. The plant thrives in warm and humid conditions and can be propagated through two main methods: seed propagation and vegetative propagation.

Seed propagation

Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Aspidoglossum ovalifolium. This method involves collecting mature pods once they have ripened and dried out on the plant. The seeds are then sown in a potting mix that is well-draining and kept moist. The pot should be placed in a warm, humid environment with filtered sunlight. Germination usually takes between two to four weeks and the new seedlings require special care, such as providing enough humidity to promote healthy growth.

Vegetative propagation

Vegetative propagation is another method used to propagate Aspidoglossum ovalifolium. This method involves dividing the plant during the dormant season, and replanting the divisions in separate containers. The roots should be carefully separated, and the new plant should be potted in a soil mix that is well-draining and kept moist. The container should be covered with a plastic bag or placed in a terrarium to provide enough humidity for the plant to establish new growth. Vegetative propagation of Aspidoglossum ovalifolium is usually done in autumn or early winter.

Disease Management

Aspidoglossum ovalifolium is relatively resistant to most plant diseases. However, it may still be susceptible to some diseases, including:

• Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation. It can be managed by removing and destroying infected leaves and applying a fungicide.
• Root Rot: Over-watering and poorly-drained soil can cause root rot, which can lead to wilting and yellowing of the leaves. This disease can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding over-watering.
• Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and spraying with a fungicide.

Regularly monitoring the plant for signs of disease and promptly addressing any issues can help prevent the spread of diseases and promote plant health.

Pest Management

Aspidoglossum ovalifolium is relatively resistant to most pests. However, it may still be susceptible to some pests, including:

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellow spots on the leaves and webbing between the leaves and flowers. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution.
• Scale Insects: These small, flat insects can be found on the leaves and stems and can cause yellowing and wilting. They can be managed by removing them manually or by spraying with a horticultural oil.
• Mealybugs: These white, waxy insects can be found on the leaves and stems and can cause stunted growth and wilting. They can be managed by removing them manually or by spraying with a neem oil solution.

Regularly monitoring the plant for signs of pest infestation and promptly addressing any issues can help prevent the spread of pests and promote plant health.