Origin:
Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning, commonly known as the Large-flowered Disperis, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the orchid family Orchidaceae. It is native to the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, where it grows in the high-altitude grasslands and moist deciduous forests.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as the Large-flowered Disperis due to its showy and big flowers. However, it also goes by other names like African Disperis and Bolus' Disperis, after the botanist Harry Bolus who first discovered it in 1885.
Uses:
Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys is a popular ornamental plant in the horticultural industry due to its attractive flowers. The plant is also used in traditional medicine for various ailments. The roots are believed to have antiseptic and antifungal properties, which are useful in treating skin infections and wounds.
Appearance:
The Large-flowered Disperis is a perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has a single stem that arises from a discoid tuber. The leaves are basal, long-stalked, elliptic-ovate, and up to 12 cm in length. The plant produces one to three large, showy flowers, which are pinkish-purple or reddish-brown in color. The flowers are about 4 to 5 cm in diameter and have a distinctively 3-lobed lip with a fringed margin. The plant blooms in early spring, from September to November.
Light Requirements
Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning is a shade-loving plant. It grows best in areas with filtered light or partial shade. Direct sunlight can cause leaf burn and stunted growth in this plant. Therefore, it is best to grow it in an area that receives dappled sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in temperatures that are cool and moderate. Ideally, it should be grown in an area where the average temperature does not exceed 25 °C (77 °F) during the day and does not fall below 15 °C (59 °F) during the night. Higher temperature levels can cause the plant to wilt, while lower temperature levels can slow down the growth process.
Soil Requirements
Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning prefers well-drained soils that are slightly moist. The best soil type for this plant to grow in is a rich, loamy soil that is slightly acidic. The soil must be able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged, as waterlogged soils can lead to root rot. To ensure good drainage, it is best to plant Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning) in raised beds or containers if the natural soil is not ideal.
Cultivation methods for Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning
Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning is a terrestrial orchid species that requires a well-drained, humus-rich, and slightly acidic soil mixture for optimal growth. It is best to plant the orchid in a shaded location for protection from the sun's direct heat.
Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning can be propagated through division. The best time to divide the plant is during the rest period, usually after the flowering season. The divided plant should be re-potted in a fresh and well-draining soil mixture.
Watering needs for Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning
The watering frequency of Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning depends on the season and the soil's moisture level. During the growing season, water should be given generously but not to the point of saturating the soil. In contrast, during the rest period, it is advisable to reduce the watering frequency to prevent the soil from being too moist.
It is important to ensure that water is not allowed to sit in the plant's crown, as this can cause crown rot. A good practice is to water the plant in the early morning, leaving enough time for the foliage to dry before the night arrives.
Fertilization of Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning
Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning does not require frequent fertilization. However, during the growing season, applying a balanced orchid fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength, can enhance the plant's growth and vigor.
Avoid fertilizing the plant during the rest period, as this can disrupt the plant's natural growth cycle. Additionally, never apply fertilizer to a dry soil mix, as this can lead to root damage.
Pruning of Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning
Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning does not require much pruning, and any pruning should be done with caution. Dead or yellowing leaves can be removed from the base of the plant, but care should be taken not to damage the healthy leaves or the plant's crown.
If the plant has finished flowering and has formed seed pods, it is best to leave them intact until they turn brown and release the seeds. The seeds can then be harvested for propagation.
Propagation of Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning
Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys (Rolfe) J.C.Manning, also known as the giant tuber orchid, can be propagated through seed sowing or vegetative propagation.
Seed sowing:
The seeds of Disperis bolusiana require a period of cold stratification to break their dormancy. The process involves keeping the seeds in a moist medium at low temperatures, usually in a refrigerator, for several weeks. Once they have been stratified, the seeds can be sown in a seed tray filled with a well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of the potting mix and regularly watered until they germinate. It may take several years for the plants to reach maturity.
Vegetative propagation:
Disperis bolusiana can also be propagated vegetatively through the division of the tubers. In the wild, these orchids form clumps consisting of several tubers. When dividing the tubers, it is important to ensure that each division has at least one viable growing point. The divisions can be planted in individual pots filled with a well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix and kept in a sheltered position until they have established new growth.
Propagation of Disperis bolusiana requires patience and skill, but the reward of seeing these magnificent orchids grow and thrive in a garden or greenhouse is worth the effort.
Disease Management
The Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys is susceptible to certain diseases that can be detrimental to its growth and development. The following are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that appears as small, dark spots on the plant's leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove any affected leaves and increase air circulation by thinning out the plant.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. To manage root rot, make sure the plant is not sitting in water, and reduce watering frequency. Remove affected roots and repot the plant in fresh soil.
- Virus: Viruses can cause mottled or yellowing leaves and stunted growth. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral diseases, so it's essential to remove and destroy infected plants to prevent the spread of the virus.
Pest Management
The Disperis bolusiana Schltr. subsp. macrocorys is also prone to attacks from certain pests. The following are some common pests that might affect the plant:
- Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to see, but they can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking its sap. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a solution of water and neem oil.
- Mealybugs: These pests appear as white, cottony masses on the plant's stems and leaves. To manage mealybugs, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, and spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the plant's leaves and flowers. To manage thrips, spray the plant with insecticidal soap, and remove any affected plant parts.
