Origin
Disa spathulata (L.f.) Sw. var. atropurpurea (Sond.) Schltr., commonly known as the Broad-lipped orchid, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the orchid family. The plant is native to South Africa and can be found in four of its provinces, namely Eastern Cape, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State.
Common Names
The Broad-lipped orchid is known by various common names, including Disa violacea, Purple Disa and Purple Pride of Table Mountain.
Uses
The plant is known for its ornamental properties and is commonly grown as an indoor plant or in open gardens. The rich purple and maroon flowers with yellow centers are the main attraction of the plant and are used for ornamental purposes. Disa spathulata is also known for its medicinal properties, and it is believed that consuming infusions made from the plant's tubers can help with kidney problems.
General Appearance
The Broad-lipped orchid is a slender orchid that can grow up to 60 centimeters tall. The stem of the orchid is green and slightly hairy, and it can produce up to five flowers per stem. The flowers are purple and maroon with yellow centers, and they bloom in the late spring and early summer. The leaves of the plant are often green, and they can be long and narrow or oval-shaped. The plant's tubers are large, fleshy and are usually buried in the soil.
Light Requirements
Disa spathulata var. atropurpurea prefers bright indirect light to grow healthily. It thrives in shaded areas where it can receive filtered light. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and lead to stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm to cool temperatures between 18°C to 25°C (65°F to 77°F). Cold temperatures can halt growth, and frosty conditions can kill the plant. Constant heat can lead to dry conditions that can cause the plant to wither.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers moist and well-draining soil. Proper drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The soil pH should be acidic to slightly acidic with a range between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant requires a high level of organic matter to grow and do well. The soil should have a loamy texture to allow for air and water circulation.
Cultivation Methods
Disa spathulata (L.f.) Sw. var. atropurpurea (Sond.) Schltr. is an epiphytic plant that grows in high altitudes, such as rocky outcrops and mountainous regions. Therefore, it thrives in a cooler environment and requires adequate ventilation. When cultivating Disa spathulata, it is essential to provide a suitable growing medium that mimics its habitat, such as a mix of perlite, bark, and sphagnum moss.
Planting Disa spathulata requires a large pot or basket and ensures adequate space is left for the roots to grow. The ideal temperature for its growth is between 10°C and 25°C, and it requires bright but indirect sunlight. The plant requires humidity to thrive, and the humidity can be increased by placing the pot on a tray of damp pebbles or using a humidifier in the room.
Watering Needs
Disa spathulata requires consistent watering to thrive. However, it is essential to apply it carefully to prevent the roots from rotting. The plant requires water when the top layer of soil feels dry. When watering Disa spathulata, ensure the water does not accumulate in the pot's base, as this may lead to root rot. Moreover, avoid using cold water when watering Disa spathulata, as it may damage the plant's roots.
Fertilization
Disa spathulata requires regular fertilization to support its growth, especially during the growing season. It is best to use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 solution, that contains essential nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. You can fertilize the plant every two to three weeks. It is advisable to reduce or stop fertilization when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Disa spathulata requires minimal pruning, but removing dead or yellow leaves can help to enhance the aesthetics of the plant. You may also want to remove spent flowers to stimulate new growth. Use sharp and sterile tools to avoid injuring the plant or leaving it open to diseases.
Propagation of Disa spathulata (L.f.) Sw. var. atropurpurea (Sond.) Schltr.
Disa spathulata (L.f.) Sw. var. atropurpurea (Sond.) Schltr. is a terrestrial orchid that is native to South Africa. It can be propagated through several methods.
Division of Rhizomes
One of the easiest and most common ways to propagate Disa spathulata (L.f.) Sw. var. atropurpurea (Sond.) Schltr. is through division of rhizomes. The best time to divide the rhizomes is in the spring when new growth emerges. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the rhizomes. Make sure that each division has at least one growth point or shoot and firm roots. Replant the divisions in a suitable potting mix and keep them moist until they establish new growth.
Seeds
Disa spathulata (L.f.) Sw. var. atropurpurea (Sond.) Schltr. can also be propagated from seeds, but this method requires patience and skill. Sow the seeds onto a sterile, moist potting mix and cover them lightly with a thin layer of sand. Keep the seeds in a warm, humid place and be patient because they can take several months to germinate. Once the seedlings emerge, transplant them into individual pots.
Meristem Culture
Meristem culture is another method of propagation that is suitable for Disa spathulata (L.f.) Sw. var. atropurpurea (Sond.) Schltr. This method involves taking a small piece of tissue from the tip of the plant and growing it in a sterile nutrient medium. This technique is useful for producing large numbers of plants that are free of disease.
Disease Management
Disa spathulata var. atropurpurea is susceptible to a few common plant diseases, listed below:
Fungal Diseases
Gray Mold (Botrytis cinerea) - This is a common fungal disease that affects many plants, especially when they are under stress or in humid conditions. The symptoms include grayish mold on the leaves and flowers. To manage this, make sure the plant has good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove infected plant parts immediately.
Crown rot (Phytophthora cinnamomi) - Crown rot is caused by a fungus that affects the roots and basal stem, and is often fatal. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and only use disease-free soil and planting material.
Viral Diseases
Orchid necrosis disease (ONSV) - This viral disease is spread by sap-feeding insects. Symptoms include yellow spots on the leaves and a yellowing of the flowers. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for viral diseases, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread.
Pest Management
Disa spathulata var. atropurpurea is generally resistant to pests, but there are a few common ones that can cause problems:
Insects
Spider mites - Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking insects that are common in dry, warm conditions. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, fine webs on the plant, and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, hose down the plant with water regularly, remove infected leaves or parts of the plant, and use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control the population.
Thrips - Thrips are tiny, winged insects that also feed on plant sap. Symptoms include distorted leaves and flowers, and silvery markings on the leaves. To manage thrips, remove infected plant parts immediately, use yellow sticky traps to catch adults, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the population.
Snails and Slugs
Snails and Slugs - These pests are a common problem in humid conditions. They leave a trail of slime and eat irregularly-shaped holes in the leaves. To manage snails and slugs, hand pick them off the plant, use copper tape around the pot to prevent them from climbing up, and create barriers with diatomaceous earth around the plant.
