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Description
Disa Cylindrica, also known as the cylindrical disa, is a species of orchid that is native to the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal regions of South Africa. This plant is known for its striking appearance, with cylindrical flowers that can be up to 4cm long and are typically red or orange in color. The cylindrical disa blooms in the summer months and is a popular choice for gardeners and orchid enthusiasts alike.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota || Kingdom | Plantae || Phylum | Magnoliophyta || Class | Liliopsida || Order | Asparagales || Family | Orchidaceae || Genus | Disa || Species | Cylindrica |
Appearance
The cylindrical disa is a beautiful plant that features tall stems with cylindrical flowers that can be up to 4cm long. The flowers are typically red or orange in color and have a distinctive shape that makes them stand out. The leaves of the plant are long and narrow, and they grow in a spiral pattern around the stem. Overall, the cylindrical disa is a striking plant that is sure to catch the eye of anyone who sees it.
Care Guide
If you’re looking to grow a cylindrical disa, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind in terms of care. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to do:- Water: The cylindrical disa likes to be kept moist, so make sure to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater it, as this can cause the roots to rot.- Fertilization: You’ll want to fertilize your cylindrical disa regularly to keep it healthy. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: The cylindrical disa likes well-draining soil, so be sure to use a mix that is designed for orchids.- Sunlight: The cylindrical disa likes bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid putting it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and flowers.- Hardiness Zones: The cylindrical disa is best suited for hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, the cylindrical disa is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are a few of the most common ones to watch out for:- Red spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use a miticide to get rid of them.- Aphids: Aphids can cause deformities in the leaves and flowers. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause the flowers to wilt and turn brown. Remove any affected flowers and use a fungicide to treat the plant.
Habitat
The cylindrical disa is native to the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal regions of South Africa. It grows in grasslands and marshes, typically at elevations between 500m and 2000m. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my cylindrical disa?
A: The cylindrical disa likes to be kept moist, so water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater it, as this can cause the roots to rot.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for my cylindrical disa?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for my cylindrical disa?
A: The cylindrical disa likes well-draining soil, so be sure to use a mix that is designed for orchids.
Q: What kind of sunlight does the cylindrical disa like?
A: The cylindrical disa likes bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid putting it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and flowers.
Related Plants
Here are a few related plants that you might be interested in:- Disa Uniflora- Disa Grandiflora- Disa Triquetra
References
– “Disa Cylindrica” Kew Science, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.- “Disa Cylindrica” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute.- “Disa Cylindrica” OrchidWeb.
