Angraecum dollii is a captivating orchid species, cherished by enthusiasts for its compact growth and intriguing blooms. This miniature epiphyte offers a unique appeal, making it a desirable addition to diverse plant collections. Its modest size allows for cultivation in smaller spaces, while its distinct flowers provide a rewarding experience for growers.
Unique Characteristics and Origin
Angraecum dollii is a miniature orchid species. Its leaves are semi-terete, V-shaped in cross-section, and often unequally bilobed at the tip. The plant typically grows in a pendant manner.
This species is native to Madagascar, found in seasonably dry forests at elevations around 1000 meters. In its natural habitat, it grows as an epiphyte. Its environmental conditions, including a natural dry season, influence its growth cycle and care requirements in cultivation.
Cultivation and Care Requirements
Light
Angraecum dollii thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to Phalaenopsis orchids. While it can tolerate up to four hours of direct sun, especially from an east, north, or west-facing window, filtered light is preferred. In a greenhouse setting, shade cloth may be necessary to achieve light levels between 1,000 to 2,000 foot-candles. Providing insufficient light can hinder flowering, while too much direct sun can scorch the leaves.
Temperature and Humidity
This orchid prefers warm to cool growing conditions, with daytime temperatures of 70°F to 85°F (21.1°C to 29.4°C) and nighttime temperatures between 55°F and 72°F (12.7°C and 22.2°C). It can tolerate short temperature fluctuations of about 10°F. High humidity, ideally between 60% and 80%, is beneficial.
Watering
It prefers quick wet-dry cycles. Allow the roots to dry out completely between waterings, but then water immediately once dry. Water quality is important; using lukewarm water, such as reverse osmosis water or rainwater, is ideal to prevent salt buildup. During summer, watering might be daily, while in cooler conditions, it could be every 10 days.
Air Circulation
Adequate air movement is essential for Angraecum dollii, especially when humidity is high. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal and bacterial diseases, particularly in humid or cool, wet environments. In a greenhouse, air should move continuously around the plants. For indoor cultivation, an oscillating fan can provide the necessary air movement without directly blasting the plant.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization supports robust growth and flowering. A balanced orchid fertilizer should be applied at a diluted strength, typically ¼ to ½ of the recommended concentration. Adjustments to the fertilization schedule may be necessary seasonally, with reduced feeding during cooler, less active growth periods.
Potting and Media Choices
Angraecum dollii can be grown in pots, baskets, or mounted. When potting, a porous, well-draining mix is essential, such as a medium to coarse-grade bark mix, charcoal, perlite, or even lava rock. For potted plants, ensuring good drainage and airflow around the roots is important to prevent root rot. If mounting the orchid, use minimal or no moisture-retaining material directly at the roots, and be prepared to water more frequently.
Flowering Habits and Fragrance
Angraecum dollii produces green and white, star-shaped flowers. The flowers highlight a large white lip. An inflorescence, about 1.2 inches (3 cm) long, emerges from the leaf axil, bearing a single flower that can measure around 3.2 inches (8 cm) across.
A distinctive characteristic is its powerful nocturnal fragrance. This scent is most pronounced at dusk, described as spicy, with notes akin to cloves and sweet floral undertones like gardenia or jasmine. A dry period in its cultivation can encourage successful flowering.
Propagation and Repotting
Propagation of Angraecum dollii can occur through methods such as separating keikis. If a keiki has developed its own roots, it can be carefully removed and potted independently.
Repotting is performed every one to three years, or when the potting medium begins to decompose. Spring, immediately after flowering, is the best time for repotting. When repotting, trim any soft, rotted roots and spread the remaining healthy roots over a small amount of fresh medium at the bottom of the new container. Fill the pot with additional medium, ensuring the junction of the roots and stem remains at the top. Angraecum orchids dislike having their roots disturbed, so careful handling is important.