African Slipper Orchid
ansellia africana
Also known as: ["Slipper Orchid","African Orchid"]
Overview
A large, epiphytic orchid native to tropical Africa, known for its distinctive slipper-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Ansellia |
| Botanical Name: | Ansellia africana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, filtered light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite or coarse sand for aeration; avoid dense potting soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: high
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or as needed to remove dead material.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only non-viable parts without drastically reducing plant size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use orchid-specific mix; never let roots sit in water; repot if medium breaks down.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; tolerates mild temperature fluctuations.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Always dilute fertilizer; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs or backbulbs; occasionally from seed (challenging for home growers).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate pseudobulbs with at least 2–3 growths.
- Plant in orchid mix.
- Water sparingly until established.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
Best Time: After flowering, during active growth in spring or early summer.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), high humidity (60–80%), bright indirect light, and good air circulation.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may aid backbulb propagation.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment if healthy; backbulbs: 6–12 months for roots, 1–2 years for flowering.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, sterile potting medium, humidity dome or plastic bag, orchid mix.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy roots; keep humidity high post-division; avoid overwatering new divisions.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut dead pseudobulbs at the base; trim flower spikes just above the node if reblooming is desired; sterilize tools between cuts.
Pruning Plan
Focus on removing dead or damaged pseudobulbs and spent flower spikes to redirect energy to new growth.
Tools
Sterile pruning shears or knife, disinfectant (70% alcohol or bleach solution).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove dead pseudobulbs; trim spent flower spikes; inspect for pests or disease.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer, after flowering and before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one; ensure ample drainage holes.
Method
Remove old medium; trim dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage; position pseudobulbs above the pot rim.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the orchid outgrows its pot or the medium decomposes.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; remove old medium gently; inspect roots; position plant correctly; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains freely from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry partially between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to orchid mix; use sphagnum moss for moisture retention; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning; stunted growth; bud drop; wilting despite adequate water.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage; increases susceptibility to fungal infections.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch; dehydration; reduced flowering; potential heat stress in temperatures above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure drainage; use shade cloth if needed.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted orchid fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; flush soil monthly; avoid winter fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAnsellia africana is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause harm if ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAnsellia africana is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause harm if ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAnsellia africana is not known to produce any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Ansellia africana?
A: Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry, typically every 7-10 days depending on conditions.
Q: Does Ansellia africana require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: Can Ansellia africana be grown outdoors?
A: It is best suited for indoor cultivation in temperate climates, though it can be grown outdoors in tropical regions with proper care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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