Overview
Pachidendron africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. latum Haw. is a unique plant species that is considered as a member of the orchid family. It is commonly known as African pachidendron, and it is native to Africa. It was first described by Adrian Hardy Haworth, an English botanist, in 1821.
Appearance
The African pachidendron is a small sized terrestrial orchid that reaches a height of 10-30 cm. It has broad and oval-shaped leaves that are 5–10 cm long and 2–4 cm wide, and they are arranged in a rosette. It also has flowers that are white and showy, and they grow on an erect flower stem that comes from the center of the rosette. The flower spikes are 10–15 cm long and 8–15 cm wide with up to ten flowers per spike.
Uses
The African pachidendron is not commonly utilized for medicinal purposes or as a food source. However, the plant is suitable for ornamental purposes, especially in gardens, balconies, and terrariums. It is valued for its striking appearance and easy maintenance. African pachidendron requires minimal maintenance, making it a suitable plant for beginners to cultivate.
The African pachidendron can be propagated by seed or division. It requires moderate to bright light, and the temperature range for growth is 15°C to 25°C. The plant should be grown in well-draining soil, regularly watered and fertilized in spring and summer.
Conclusion
The African Pachidendron is a striking orchid species with broad, oval-shaped leaves and beautiful white flowers. Although it is not commonly used for medicinal or food purposes, it is highly favored for its ornamental value. As a low maintenance plant, it is recommended for novice plant enthusiasts seeking to cultivate an orchid plant.
Light Requirements
Pachidendron africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. latum Haw. typically requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It is recommended to place the plant near a window that receives morning or afternoon sun. When grown outdoors, it should be protected from direct sunlight as too much exposure can lead to leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Pachidendron africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. latum Haw. is between 60°F to 75°F (15.5°C to 24°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. In contrast, temperatures above 85°F (29.5°C) can lead to leaf drop and stunted growth. It is important to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the year, as sudden temperature fluctuation can also harm the plant.
Soil Requirements
Pachidendron africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. latum Haw. prefers well-draining, sandy loam soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should not be compacted as the plant has a shallow root system. It is recommended to add perlite or sand to the soil mixture to improve drainage. Regular watering is necessary to maintain the soil moisture levels, but overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Pachidendron Africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. Latum Haw. is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in various conditions. It prefers indirect sunlight or partial shade and requires temperatures ranging from 55°F to 80°F.
The plant grows well in well-draining soil, and ideally, a pH of about 6 is best. The pot should be large enough to allow the root ball to spread out yet small enough for the plant to fit perfectly. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes.
Watering Needs
The watering requirements for Pachidendron Africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. Latum Haw. are moderate. Water the plant thoroughly and wait for the soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering the plant may lead to root rot, while underwatering it may cause the leaves to turn brown.
It is advisable to water the plant from the bottom. Place the pot in a container of water and wait for the soil to absorb sufficient water before removing it from the water container.
Fertilization
Pachidendron Africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. Latum Haw. requires regular fertilization to thrive. Apply a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing season and once a month during the dormant season.
Using a slow-release fertilizer is a good option. However, avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this may cause damage and may affect the growth of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is beneficial to Pachidendron Africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. Latum Haw., and it helps in maintaining its shape and size. The best time to prune the plant is during the growing season, preferably in the spring.
The plant can be pruned to remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Light pruning is also recommended to encourage the plant to produce bushier growth.
When pruning, ensure to make clean cuts, and avoid leaving any jagged edges or crushing the branches. This will help prevent any potential damage or disease from entering the plant.
Propagation of Pachidendron africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. latum Haw.
Pachidendron africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. latum Haw. can be propagated by several methods that include:
Seeds
This method involves obtaining mature seeds from healthy plants and sowing them in appropriate soil conditions. The seeds should be treated with a fungicide before planting to prevent diseases that could affect germination. Sowing the seeds in a greenhouse will provide optimal conditions for germination and growth. The seeds will take between 2 and 3 weeks to germinate. Once germinated, the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots and cared for until ready for planting in the ground.
Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is possible with Pachidendron africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. latum Haw., but it is not the most effective method. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be approximately 8 to 10 cm long and treated with a rooting hormone before planting in rooting media. The cuttings should be kept in a humid environment with adequate light until they form roots. Once the new plants have formed roots, they can be transplanted into individual pots until eventually planted in the ground.
Air Layering
Air layering is a propagation method that is suitable for plants with woody stems. This method involves making a cut on a healthy branch and covering the wound with rooting media. The cut should be carefully covered with a plastic wrap to keep moisture trapped. Roots will start growing at the cut and eventually form a new plant. Once the roots have formed, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and planted in the ground or a pot.
Disease Management
Pachidendron africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. latum Haw. is relatively disease-resistant, but some diseases can cause damage to the leaves and stem of the plant. Here are the common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease affecting Pachidendron africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. latum Haw. It is characterized by the appearance of small, circular spots on the leaves. These spots often have a tan or brownish center, with a yellow halo around the edges.
To manage leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Ensure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Apply copper fungicide to protect healthy leaves.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that presents as orange or yellowish spots on the upper surface of leaves and as small, grayish-white bumps on the lower surface. The spores spread easily and quickly.
To manage rust, remove the affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Ensure the plant has good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and prune the affected area. Apply copper fungicide to protect healthy leaves.
Pest Management
Pachidendron africanum (Mill.) Haw. var. latum Haw. is generally pest-resistant, but some pests can cause harm to the plant. Here are the common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They often appear as white, cottony masses on leaves and stems of the plant.
To manage mealybugs, remove them from the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Repeat this process until all visible mealybugs are removed.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing small, yellow/brown speckles on the leaves. They often appear in large numbers on the undersides of leaves.
To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Repeat this process every two to three days until there are no visible signs of mites and apply insecticidal soap or a neem oil-based spray.
