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Description
Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis, commonly known as the African Disa, is a terrestrial orchid species that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is native to South Africa, where it grows in the Fynbos biome, a unique and biodiverse shrubland region. This orchid species is highly prized for its intricate flowers, which are small and delicate, and its unique growth habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Disperis |
Appearance
Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis is a small, herbaceous orchid that grows up to 20cm tall. The leaves are ovate-lanceolate, glossy, and green, and can grow up to 4cm long. The flowers are small, with a unique shape that resembles a small bird in flight. They are white or pinkish in color, with purple markings, and have a sweet fragrance. The flowers are borne on a slender stem, which can have up to six flowers per stem.
Care Guide
To care for Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis, it is important to provide the right amount of water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.Water: This orchid species prefers to be kept moist but not wet. Watering once or twice a week is recommended, depending on the growing conditions.Fertilization: Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.Soil: It is recommended to use a well-draining orchid mix, such as a bark-based mix.Sunlight: This orchid species prefers bright, indirect light. It should be placed near a window with filtered light.Hardiness Zones: Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis is susceptible to common orchid pests and diseases, such as spider mites and fungal infections. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant clean and dry, avoid overwatering, and provide good air circulation.
Habitat
Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis is native to South Africa, where it grows in the Fynbos biome. This region is characterized by a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis grows in well-draining, acidic soils and can be found growing in rocky areas and on hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis be watered?
A: Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the growing conditions.
Q: What type of soil is best for Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis?
A: It is recommended to use a well-draining orchid mix, such as a bark-based mix, for Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis.
Q: Where is Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis native to?
A: Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis is native to South Africa.
Q: What type of climate does Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis prefer?
A: Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis prefers a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Disperis Capensis Var. Capensis:
- Disperis Falcata
- Disperis Haematosticta
- Disperis Hookeriana
- Disperis Tysonii
References
Here are some references used for this article:
- “Disperis capensis.” Orchid Species Plus, www.orchidspecies.com/disperis-capensis/.
- “Disperis capensis var. capensis.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/disperiscapcap.htm.
- “Disperis capensis var. capensis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, www.ipni.org/n/527204-1.
