Overview
Disa tripetaloides (L.f.) N.E.Br. subsp. aurata (Bolus) H.P.Linder is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. This plant is native to South Africa and is commonly referred to as the Golden-haired Disa.
General Appearance
The Golden-haired Disa is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 30 cm in height. It is characterized by its densely hairy leaves that are long and narrow, growing up to 8 cm in length. The flowers of the Golden-haired Disa are quite large, growing up to 10 cm in diameter, and are bright yellow in colour, with a small lip at the base. The stem of the Golden-haired Disa is slender and wiry, and can have up to eight flowers per stem.
Uses
The Golden-haired Disa is considered a highly prized ornamental plant and is commonly cultivated as a beautiful addition to gardens and flowerbeds. However, this plant is also important in traditional medicine and is said to possess a number of medicinal properties.
Some traditional healers prepare a tea from the Golden-haired Disa roots and rhizomes, which is believed to have the ability to boost the immune system and help fight off infections. Others use a poultice made from the leaves and flowers to dress wounds and promote healing. The roots of the Golden-haired Disa are also used to treat a range of ailments including coughs, colds, and arthritis.
Conclusion
The Golden-haired Disa is a beautiful and highly valued plant in South Africa and is treasured for its striking, bright yellow flowers. It has a special place in traditional medicine and is used as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments.
Growth Conditions for Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata:
Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata, commonly known as the Golden Disa, is a species of orchid that is endemic to South Africa. This plant is highly sought after for its beautiful yellow flowers, hence its name. To ensure proper growth and development, the following growth conditions need to be met:
Light:
The Golden Disa requires bright, indirect light to grow well. It is important to provide the plant with enough light to promote good growth and flowering. However, direct sunlight can damage the leaves and flowers, so it is important to provide filtered light or partial shade to protect the plant from the direct sun.
Temperature:
The Golden Disa requires a cool to warm environment to grow well. The ideal temperatures for growing this plant are between 10°C to 25°C. However, it is important to remember that the plant should not be subjected to extreme temperature variations, which can cause stress and damage to the plant. During the winter months, the plant can tolerate cooler temperatures, but care should be taken to keep the plant away from any frost or freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements:
The Golden Disa requires well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to grow well. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.6 to 6.0. The ideal potting mix for this plant would be a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand. This will help the orchid receive the necessary nutrients and moisture while also providing good drainage. The plant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
By providing the Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata the right growth conditions, it will grow and thrive elegantly. The right light, temperature, and soil conditions would make it easier to produce beautiful flowers and leaves with lesser chances of disease or damage.
Cultivation Methods
Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata is a terrestrial orchid that can be found growing in moist and shaded areas in its natural habitat. To cultivate this plant, it is recommended to replicate these conditions as closely as possible. The plant should be grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is also important to maintain a constant temperature range of 20-25°C to prevent stress to the plant.
Watering Needs
Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata requires consistent moisture to thrive. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once per week, and more frequently during hot and dry weather. Opt for rainwater or distilled water when possible, as the plant is sensitive to chemicals present in tap water.
Fertilization
Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata should be fertilized regularly during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with a 20-20-20 NPK ratio, diluted to half strength. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks to prevent over-fertilization, which can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning
Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata does not require extensive pruning. However, dead or damaged leaves and flowers should be removed promptly to maintain the overall health of the plant. If the plant starts to become overcrowded, it can be divided during its dormant period in the fall. Dividing the plant will not only help to rejuvenate its growth, but it can also be a great way to propagate the plant.
Propagation of Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata
Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata can be propagated by two main methods: seeds and vegetative propagation. Both methods require specific conditions to ensure successful propagation of this orchid species.
Propagation by Seeds
Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata produces small seeds that require specific conditions for successful germination. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained medium that contains a combination of fine bark, sphagnum moss, perlite, and charcoal. The medium should also be sterilized to avoid contamination by fungi or other pathogens.
After sowing the seeds, keep them in a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature for germination is between 20-25°C. The seeds should be covered with a transparent plastic cover to maintain the required humidity level. It usually takes around three to four weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Once the seedlings are large enough to be handled, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown in a suitable orchid mix. It takes around two to three years for the seedlings to reach the flowering stage.
Vegetative Propagation
Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata can also be propagated through vegetative methods, including division of the rhizomes and backbulbs. This method is usually faster than seed propagation and results in plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.
Rhizomes should be divided during the dormant period when the old growth dies back. Each division should contain a minimum of three growing points. These divisions can be potted in a suitable orchid mix and kept in a protected environment until new growth and roots have developed.
Backbulbs are sections of old pseudobulbs that have dormant buds that can produce new shoots. These should be cut into small sections that contain one or two buds. They can be potted in a suitable orchid mix and kept in a warm, humid environment until new growth appears. This method usually results in faster propagation than rhizome division.
Regardless of the propagation method, Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata requires specific care requirements to ensure healthy growth and successful propagation.
Disease Management
Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata is mainly susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, black spot, and root rot.
To prevent powdery mildew, avoid watering the plant from above to minimize the amount of water lingering on the foliage. Provide proper air circulation by spacing plants accordingly. Use a sulfur-based fungicide as a preventive measure.
To manage black spot, remove and destroy affected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Use a copper-based fungicide to manage the spread of the fungus.
Root rot can be managed by ensuring that the soil drainage is perfect, avoiding waterlogging the plant. Use a soil-drenching fungicide to manage root rot.
Pest Management
Disa tripetaloides subsp. aurata is mainly affected by spider mites and snails.
Spider mites can be managed by regularly spraying the plant with water to improve humidity. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control any infestation.
To manage snails, monitor and remove them from the plant by picking them off manually. Place bait traps around the plant to keep the snail population under control.
