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Description
Disa Cornuta, also known as the African orchid, is a species of orchid native to South Africa. This stunning plant produces a unique, yellow and red flower that blooms in the late summer months. It is a terrestrial orchid, which means it grows in soil rather than on trees or rocks like other orchids.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Disa |
Appearance
The Disa Cornuta can reach up to 40cm in height and has long, slender leaves that are green in color. The flowers are the main attraction, with their bright yellow petals and red lip. The flowers are approximately 3-4cm in diameter and are held on a long stem that rises above the foliage. The flowers are produced in abundance and provide a stunning display in the late summer months.
Care Guide
Disa Cornuta is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have specific needs. Here are some tips for keeping your African orchid healthy:
- Water: The Disa Cornuta requires consistent moisture. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and be sure to water the plant thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your African orchid every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
- Soil: Disa Cornuta prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark for best results.
- Sunlight: Disa Cornuta prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Disa Cornuta is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Disa Cornuta is generally healthy and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered, so be sure to provide proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Disa Cornuta is native to South Africa, where it grows in moist, well-draining soils in marshy areas or on rocky outcrops. It prefers cooler temperatures and high humidity, which can be replicated in a greenhouse or humid terrarium environment.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Disa Cornuta be grown outdoors in colder climates?
A: Disa Cornuta is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, so it may be able to survive outdoors in milder climates. However, it is generally recommended to grow this plant in a greenhouse or indoor environment where the temperature and humidity can be controlled.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Disa Cornuta?
A: Fertilize your African orchid every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Q: Can Disa Cornuta be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Disa Cornuta can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a cutting of the stem with several nodes and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, humid environment until the cutting has rooted.
Q: Why is my Disa Cornuta not blooming?
A: Disa Cornuta requires bright, indirect sunlight and consistent moisture to bloom. If the plant is not receiving enough light or water, it may not produce blooms. Ensure that the plant is receiving the correct amount of light and water, and fertilize regularly to encourage blooming.
Related Plants
- Disa Uniflora
- Disa Triangularis
- Disa Grandiflora
- Disa Pulchra
References
- “Disa Cornuta.” PlantZAfrica.com, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2021, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/disaconuta.htm.
- “Disa Cornuta.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/23263/disa-cornuta/details.
- “Disa Cornuta.” World of Flowering Plants, 2021, www.worldoffloweringplants.com/disacornuta-african-orchid/.
