Aerangis Articulata

Description

Aerangis Articulata, also known as the Articulated Aerangis, is an epiphytic orchid that originated from Madagascar, East Africa. It is a small orchid that can grow up to 10 cm long, and it typically blooms from winter to springtime. This orchid features unique flowers that are segmented into parts, which gives it the name “articulata.”

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Aerangis Articulata orchid has a unique appearance that distinguishes it from other orchids. Its flowers are small, about 1 cm in diameter, and come in clusters of five to nine. The flowers have white petals that are segmented into parts, which gives them a unique look. The sepals are greenish-yellow and have a pointed shape. The leaves of the orchid are dark green and grow in a rosette fashion.

Care Guide

Aerangis Articulata orchids are relatively easy to care for, but they require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some essential care tips:

• Water: Water your orchid once a week, allowing the potting mix to dry out between watering sessions. Avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers, as this can cause rotting.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your orchid once a month during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
• Soil: Use a well-draining orchid mix that contains bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
• Sunlight: Place your orchid in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can burn the leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: Aerangis Articulata orchids thrive in hardiness zones 11-12.

Common Pests & Diseases

Aerangis Articulata orchids are susceptible to pests and diseases that can harm their growth and health. Here are some common issues to watch out for:

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can damage the leaves and flowers of your orchid. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Scale Insects: These pests appear as brown or black bumps on the leaves of your orchid. Use rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap to control them.
• Fungal Diseases: Overwatering or exposing your orchid to high humidity can cause fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. Use a fungicide to control these diseases.

Habitat

Aerangis Articulata orchids grow naturally in the humid forests of Madagascar, East Africa. They prefer to grow as epiphytes on tree branches and trunks, where they can access bright, indirect sunlight and moisture from the air. This orchid also grows well in artificial environments such as greenhouses and terrariums.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I repot my Aerangis Articulata orchid?

A: Repot your orchid once every two years, or when the potting mix breaks down and becomes too compact. Use a fresh orchid mix and a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one.

Q: Can I grow Aerangis Articulata orchids in a terrarium?

A: Yes, Aerangis Articulata orchids grow well in terrariums with bright, indirect light and high humidity. Use a well-draining orchid mix and mist the leaves regularly to maintain humidity.

Q: Can I propagate Aerangis Articulata orchids from cuttings?

A: Yes, you can propagate Aerangis Articulata orchids from stem cuttings. Make sure that the cutting has at least two nodes and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting it in a fresh orchid mix.

Q: How long do Aerangis Articulata orchids live?

A: Aerangis Articulata orchids can live for several years with proper care. They typically bloom for several weeks each year.

Related Plants

• Aerangis Biloba
• Aerangis Citrata
• Aerangis Confusa
• Aerangis Elliptica
• Aerangis Fastuosa

References

• “Aerangis Articulata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l660.
• “Aerangis Articulata.” OrchidWeb, orchidweb.com/products/aerangis-articulata.
• “Aerangis Articulata (Lindl.) Schltr.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:628337-1.