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Description
Disa Tenuifolia, commonly known as the slender disa or red disa, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the orchid family. It is native to South Africa and is found in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces. This plant is known for its bright red flowers that bloom in spring and summer. Disa Tenuifolia is a terrestrial orchid, which means it grows on the ground and not on trees like most orchids.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Disa |
Appearance
Disa Tenuifolia has long, slender leaves that grow in a rosette pattern at the base of the plant. These leaves can grow up to 30 centimeters long and are dark green in color. The plant can grow up to 60 centimeters tall and produces one or two flower spikes per season. The flowers are bright red with a yellow center and have a distinct, sweet fragrance. Each flower is about 2 centimeters in diameter and has three petals and three sepals.
Care Guide
Water: Disa Tenuifolia prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged. Water the plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) to promote healthy growth and blooming.Soil: Disa Tenuifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and bark to create a suitable growing medium.Sunlight: Disa Tenuifolia prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can burn the leaves and flowers.Hardiness Zones: Disa Tenuifolia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Disa Tenuifolia is relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. These pests can be treated with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Disa Tenuifolia is native to South Africa and is found in mountainous areas with high rainfall. It grows in marshy areas, along streams, and in wetlands. This plant is adapted to growing in moist, nutrient-rich soil and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Disa Tenuifolia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Disa Tenuifolia can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright location with indirect sunlight.Q: How often should Disa Tenuifolia be fertilized?
A: Disa Tenuifolia should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).Q: How do I know if my Disa Tenuifolia is getting too much sunlight?
A: If the leaves on your Disa Tenuifolia start to turn yellow or brown, it may be getting too much sunlight. Move the plant to a shadier location.Q: Can Disa Tenuifolia grow in cold climates?
A: No, Disa Tenuifolia is not frost-tolerant and can only be grown in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Disa Tenuifolia:
- Disa Uniflora
- Disa Graminifolia
- Disa Triangularis
References
- “Disa Tenuifolia.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/disa.htm.
- “Disa Tenuifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=245321.
- “Disa.” Orchids Made Easy, 24 Apr. 2021, orchidsguru.com/category/orchids/disas/.
