Disa

Disa is a genus represented by more than 130 species found in regions of South-, Central-, and East-Africa, and Madagascar.

Disa flowers are unique. The dorsal sepal is prominent and spurred, and the lip is small and not always protruding from inside the flower.

The plants are robust, grow up to 60cm tall and have about 10 basal leaves that are long. The leaves, assuming it is not freezing cold, stay green over the winter and until the end of summer. New leaves will appear in early spring.

The plants prefer dry conditions during the winter dormancy; however, the soil should never dry out completely. During the growing season, the plants must be watered regularly, Same requirements as Phragmipediums.

The long flower spikes, appear sometime mid summer from the over-wintered rosettes. The flowers are large, very showy, especially the red, and white, cream, yellow, purple or red, with a pleasant scent. The propagation is simple.

Older Disa plants produce new juvenile plants every year. The new juvenile plants grow from new tubers next to the main growth. Underground runners are also common. Of course, Disa plants can also be grown from seed; however, it takes many years to flower.

General speaking, Disa species and hybrids love cold and dry winters, and warm and wet summers. Good air movement, relatively cool temperatures, medium humidity and shade or filtered sunlight during summer, are preconditions for home growing. (Similar conditions to Masdevalias).

Diseases: Disa plnats are susceptible to variety fungal and bacterial rot diseases. Good air movement and the occasional systemic fungicide/bactericide application helps.

It is always wise to read as much as you can and improve your knowledge, before you buy any plants.