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Description
Disa Brevicornis, commonly known as the Pride of Table Mountain, is a stunning orchid species belonging to the family Orchidaceae. It is a terrestrial orchid native to the Western Cape of South Africa, where it grows in wet habitats such as seeps and stream banks. The plant can grow up to 30cm tall and produces 2-5 flowers per stem. The flowers are bright red or orange with yellow markings and have a unique, complex shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Disa |
| Species | Brevicornis |
Appearance
Disa Brevicornis is a beautiful orchid with a unique appearance. The plant produces 2-5 flowers per stem, which are bright red or orange with yellow markings. The flowers have a complex shape, with a prominent lip that extends outwards and downwards. The lip is yellow with red or orange spots and has a distinctive spur at the base. The flowers are held on long, slender stems that can grow up to 30cm tall. The leaves are strap-shaped and grow in a rosette at the base of the plant. They are green and have a smooth surface.
Care Guide
Disa Brevicornis is a relatively easy orchid to care for, but it does have specific requirements. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
Water: Disa Brevicornis likes to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, but be careful not to let the pot sit in standing water.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced orchid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Soil: Disa Brevicornis likes a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and bark works well.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Disa Brevicornis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Disa Brevicornis can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common issues:
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
Mealybugs: These insects can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. Use a systemic insecticide to control them.
Root rot: Overwatering and poor drainage can cause the roots to rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining and don’t let the plant sit in standing water.
Habitat
Disa Brevicornis is native to the Western Cape of South Africa, where it grows in wet habitats such as seeps and stream banks. It prefers a cool, moist environment and thrives in areas with high humidity. The plant is often found growing in the company of other fynbos species and is an important part of the Cape Floral Kingdom.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Disa Brevicornis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Disa Brevicornis can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is kept in a cool, humid environment.
Q: How often should I water my Disa Brevicornis?
A: Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, but be careful not to let the pot sit in standing water.
Q: Can Disa Brevicornis be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Disa Brevicornis can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring when the plant is actively growing.
Q: Does Disa Brevicornis have any medicinal uses?
A: No, there are no known medicinal uses for Disa Brevicornis.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:
- Disa Uniflora
- Disa Grandiflora
- Disa Ophrydea
- Disa Triangularis
References
- “Disa Brevicornis.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2021, http://pza.sanbi.org/disa-brevicornis.
- “Disa Brevicornis.” Orchids of South Africa, 2021, http://orchidssa.co.za/disabrevicornis.php.
- “Disa Brevicornis.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18289/disa-brevicornis/details.
