Overview of Chamaeangis dewevrei
Chamaeangis dewevrei, also known as De Wilder's Chamaeangis, is an epiphytic orchid species that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is native to tropical Africa, particularly in Ivory Coast and Ghana.
Appearance of Chamaeangis dewevrei
The plant has small and thin leaves that are bright green in color. It produces small flower spikes that are up to 10 cm long and has white or creamy flowers that are approximately 1 cm in diameter. The flowers have a pleasant scent that is often described as fruity or spicy.
Common Names of Chamaeangis dewevrei
Chamaeangis dewevrei is commonly known as De Wilder's Chamaeangis. It is also known as the African miniature orchid and Dwarf wispy orchid.
Uses of Chamaeangis dewevrei
Chamaeangis dewevrei is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers. It is often grown indoors or in greenhouses and is favored by orchid enthusiasts because of its small size and ease of cultivation. It can be propagated by division or from seed and requires a well-draining orchid mix, bright but indirect light, and high humidity to thrive.
Aside from its ornamental use, some African tribes also use Chamaeangis dewevrei for medicinal purposes. The plant is said to have antimicrobial properties and is used to treat various ailments such as cough, fever, diarrhea, and skin infections.
Light Requirements
Chamaeangis dewevrei requires bright but indirect sunlight. It is best to place the plant near a south or west-facing window where it can get at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. Too much direct sunlight may scorch the leaves and cause damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging between 20-30°C (68-86°F) during the day, and between 15-20°C (59-68°F) at night. Avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperature fluctuations, drafts, or cold air currents, which may damage or slow down its growth rate.
Soil Requirements
Chamaeangis dewevrei prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of orchid bark, perlite and sphagnum moss is an ideal growing medium for this plant. The plant should not be planted in regular potting soil as it may retain too much moisture and lead to root rot. Additionally, it requires occasional fertilization to thrive.
Cultivation of Chamaeangis dewevrei (De Wild.) Schltr.
Chamaeangis dewevrei (De Wild.) Schltr. can be cultivated in pots and baskets or mounted on a piece of wood. The plant needs a well-draining growing medium that consists of equal parts of sphagnum moss and fine bark. It also requires partial shade and high humidity levels.
Watering Needs of Chamaeangis dewevrei (De Wild.) Schltr.
Watering needs of Chamaeangis dewevrei (De Wild.) Schltr. depends on the size and type of the container. When grown in pots, the plant should be watered when the top inch of the growing medium has dried out. In contrast, plants grown on wood require more frequent misting or watering as the growing medium dries out faster.
Fertilization of Chamaeangis dewevrei (De Wild.) Schltr.
Chamaeangis dewevrei (De Wild.) Schltr. requires fertilization at intervals of 2-4 weeks during the growing season. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20 is ideal for the plant. Apply the fertilizer at half the recommended strength.
Pruning of Chamaeangis dewevrei (De Wild.) Schltr.
Pruning is essential for Chamaeangis dewevrei (De Wild.) Schltr. to maintain its compact shape and promote new growth. Dead or yellow leaves should be removed to prevent the spread of diseases. Any dead or unhealthy roots should be removed during repotting. The plant also benefits from the removal of old flower spikes, which can promote the emergence of new ones.
Propagation of Chamaeangis dewevrei
Chamaeangis dewevrei is commonly propagated by two methods: division and seed propagation.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagation for Chamaeangis dewevrei. This method involves dividing the existing plant into smaller sections, each with at least one pseudobulb and a few healthy roots. The ideal time for division is during the plant's growing season, which usually occurs between spring and summer.
The divided sections should be planted separately in pots filled with a well-draining orchid mix. They should be placed in a warm, humid location and misted regularly. It is important to avoid overwatering newly divided plants, as this can lead to root rot.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is a more complex method of propagation, but it can produce large quantities of new plants. This method requires the use of sterile equipment and a sterile growing medium.
To propagate Chamaeangis dewevrei from seeds, the seeds must first be removed from mature seed pods and cleaned. They should then be soaked in a solution of water and fungicide for a few minutes before being placed in a sterile container filled with a suitable growing medium.
The container should be placed in a warm, humid location and kept moist. Germination can take several weeks to several months, depending on growing conditions. Once the seedlings have developed several leaves and roots, they can be transplanted into individual pots containing orchid mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Chamaeangis dewevrei (De Wild.) Schltr.
Chamaeangis dewevrei is a beautiful orchid species that is native to central Africa. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to pest infestations and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Chamaeangis dewevrei and possible ways to manage them:
Pests
Spider mites: These tiny pests are common in dry conditions and can cause the leaves to have a stippled appearance. To control spider mites, regularly mist the leaves and wipe them down with a damp cloth. You can also introduce predatory mites like Phytoseiulus persimilis to help control the population.
Thrips: These pests can cause discoloration or distortion of leaves. Sticky traps and neem oil sprays can be effective in controlling thrips. However, it is essential to ensure the entire plant is covered with the spray.
Scale insects: These pests appear as small, waxy bumps on the leaves and stems. Control scale insects by wiping the leaves with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol and pruning heavily infested areas.
Diseases
Orchid black rot: This bacterial disease causes black or brown spots on leaves, stems, and flowers. The affected plant parts may become soft and mushy and eventually die. The only way to manage orchid black rot is by removing the affected plant parts and treating the plant with a bactericide.
Orchid viruses: Viruses can cause discoloration, mosaic patterns, and streaks on leaves. There is no cure for viruses, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread to other orchids.
Fungal infections: Fungi can cause leaf spots and wilting. To control fungal infections, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure it is well-ventilated. Treating the plant with a fungicide can also be effective.
Good plant hygiene and regular monitoring of the plant for the presence of pests and diseases are essential in preventing infestations from getting out of control. Proper care and cultural management practices can also improve the plant's natural defense against pests and diseases.
