Ansellia

Description

Ansellia is a genus of orchids that are native to Africa. The genus was named after John Ansell, a British collector of African orchids. Ansellia is a monotypic genus, meaning it only has one species, Ansellia africana. This orchid is commonly known as the leopard orchid, due to the leopard-like spots on its flowers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Ansellia africana is a large, epiphytic orchid that can grow up to two meters tall. It has long, thin, strap-shaped leaves that can reach up to one meter in length. The flowers are large and showy, and can be up to 15 centimeters in diameter. They are typically yellow or orange, with brown spots or blotches that resemble a leopard’s spots. The lip of the flower is fringed and white.

Care Guide

Ansellia africana is a relatively easy orchid to care for. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy:

Water: Water Ansellia africana regularly, but allow the potting mix to dry out slightly between waterings. This orchid prefers to be kept moist, but not waterlogged.

Fertilization: Feed Ansellia africana every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce feeding during the winter months.

Soil: Ansellia africana prefers a well-draining potting mix that contains bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. Avoid using soil, as it can cause the roots to rot.

Sunlight: Ansellia africana prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves and flowers.

Hardiness Zones: Ansellia africana is not frost hardy and should be kept in a warm environment. It prefers temperatures between 18-25°C (65-80°F).

Common Pests & Diseases

Ansellia africana is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:

Scale insects: These insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing the plant to weaken and eventually die. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Crown rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Affected plants should be repotted in fresh potting mix and given less water.

Habitat

Ansellia africana is native to sub-Saharan Africa, where it grows in hot, humid environments. It is typically found growing on trees or rocks, where it can take advantage of the high humidity and good air circulation. It is often found growing in the same areas as other epiphytic orchids, such as Vanda and Dendrobium.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Ansellia africana be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Ansellia africana can be grown indoors as long as it is given bright, indirect sunlight and regular watering.

Q: How often should Ansellia africana be repotted?

A: Ansellia africana should be repotted every two years or when the potting mix starts to break down.

Q: How long do the flowers of Ansellia africana last?

A: The flowers of Ansellia africana can last up to two months.

Q: Can Ansellia africana be propagated?

A: Yes, Ansellia africana can be propagated by dividing the plant at the roots during repotting.

Related Plants

Here are some other orchids that are related to Ansellia africana:

• Vanda
• Dendrobium
• Cymbidium
• Phalaenopsis

References

• “Ansellia africana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292869&isprofile=1&basic=ansellia.
• “Ansellia africana.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18220/ansellia-africana/details.
• “Ansellia africana.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed September 21, 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=16456.