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Description
Disperis Woodii is a rare and beautiful orchid that is native to South Africa. It is a terrestrial species that can be found growing in grasslands, rocky slopes, and open woodlands. The plant produces a basal rosette of leaves that are elliptic in shape and dark green in color. The flowers are borne on a tall, slender stem and are pink or mauve in color with darker spots on the lip. The plant blooms from late winter to early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Disperis |
Appearance
Disperis Woodii is a small orchid that typically grows to a height of 10-20cm. The plant produces a basal rosette of leaves that are dark green in color and elliptic in shape. The leaves are up to 15cm long and 6cm wide. The flowers are borne on a tall, slender stem that can reach a height of up to 50cm. The flowers are pink or mauve in color with darker spots on the lip. The lip is elongated and has a fringed margin. The flowers are about 2cm in diameter and are produced in a loose raceme.
Care Guide
Water: Disperis Woodii prefers to be kept moist but not soggy. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize Disperis Woodii every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Soil: Disperis Woodii prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Use a commercial orchid mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and bark.
Sunlight: Disperis Woodii prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Disperis Woodii is not frost hardy and should be grown indoors in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Disperis Woodii is generally a healthy plant but can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and black rot. Pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can also be a problem. Treat any infestations promptly with a commercial insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Disperis Woodii is native to South Africa where it can be found growing in grasslands, rocky slopes, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It is a terrestrial species that grows from a tuberous root system.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Disperis Woodii an endangered species?
A: Yes, Disperis Woodii is considered to be a rare and endangered species in its native range in South Africa.
Q: How often should I water my Disperis Woodii orchid?
A: Water your Disperis Woodii orchid thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: Can I grow Disperis Woodii outdoors?
A: Disperis Woodii is not frost hardy and should be grown indoors in cooler climates.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Disperis Woodii orchid?
A: Fertilize Disperis Woodii every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Related Plants
- Disperis Fanniniae
- Disperis Papilionacea
- Disperis Tysonii
References
- Johnson, S. D., & Bytebier, B. (2015). The orchids of South Africa: a field guide. Jacana Media.
- Orchid Society of Southern Africa. (2021). Disperis Woodii. Retrieved from http://www.orchid.org.za/disperis-woodii/
- PlantZAfrica. (2021). Disperis Woodii. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/disperis-woodii
