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Description
Disa Stachyoides, commonly known as the red disa or marsh orchid, is a species of orchid that is native to the Cape Floristic Region in South Africa. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 90 cm tall and produces a single erect stem with a raceme of bright red flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Disa |
Appearance
The red disa has bright green leaves that are lance-shaped and up to 25 cm long. The flowers are 2-3 cm in diameter and have three sepals and three petals. The sepals are green and the petals are bright red with a white or yellow center. The lip of the flower is also red and has a fringed edge. The plant blooms from late winter to early spring.
Care Guide
The red disa requires consistent care to thrive. Here are the key care tips:
Water
The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater as this can cause root rot. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Soil
The red disa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is recommended.
Sunlight
The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones
The red disa thrives in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The red disa is susceptible to spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as black spot and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The red disa is native to the marshy areas of the Cape Floristic Region in South Africa. It grows in wet soils and requires consistent moisture to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the red disa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright, humid environment.
Q: How often should the red disa be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can the red disa be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through division of the rhizomes.
Q: How long does the red disa bloom?
A: The plant blooms from late winter to early spring.
Related Plants
- Disa Uniflora
- Disa Graminifolia
- Disa Triangularis
- Disa Cornuta
References
- “Disa Stachyoides.” PlantZAfrica.com, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2019, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/disa.htm.
- “Disa Stachyoides.” Pacific Bulb Society, 2018, www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Disa_stachyoides.
- “Disa Stachyoides.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, 2021, wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=61846.
