Overview
Disperis circumflexa (L.) T.Durand & Schinz var. aemula (Schltr.) Kraenzl. is a species of orchid that is native to Madagascar and South Africa. It is a member of the Disperis genus and the Orchidaceae family.
Common Names
Disperis circumflexa (L.) T.Durand & Schinz var. aemula (Schltr.) Kraenzl. is commonly known as the African butterfly orchid and the purple Disperis.
Appearance
The African butterfly orchid is a small, ground-dwelling orchid that grows to about 15 cm in height. It has a single, basal leaf that is green in color and lance-shaped. The flowers are the most striking feature of this plant, with purple, pink, or white petals that are heavily veined and resemble butterfly wings. The flower stalks emerge in autumn and winter and can carry several flowers. This orchid has a distinctive, sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators.
Uses
The African butterfly orchid is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its beautiful flowers. It is commonly cultivated in gardens and also fares well in pots or containers. The flowers are sometimes used in traditional medicine as a remedy for various ailments.
Light Requirements
Disperis circumflexa var. aemula is an epiphytic orchid that thrives in shaded areas with filtered sunlight. It requires a light source that is bright enough to enable photosynthesis while preventing direct exposure to the sun's intense rays. A bright but shaded outdoor location or a partially shaded windowsill indoors will provide the right light conditions for the plant to grow.
Temperature Preferences
The growth of Disperis circumflexa var. aemula is optimal in temperatures that range within 15°C to 26°C. These orchids are naturally adapted to mountainous regions in Africa, where there is cool air and mist. Therefore, a cooler environment can enhance the orchid's growth, as long as the temperature does not fall below 10°C or rise above 30°C. In addition, the plant requires a difference in temperature between day and night to trigger blooming.
Soil Requirements
Disperis circumflexa var. aemula is an epiphyte, which means that it grows on other plants without absorbing nutrients from them. In nature, it grows on trees, cliffs, and rocks, using their surfaces as a base. As such, this orchid does not require soil to grow, and traditional plant pots may not be ideal. Instead, consider using a pot with a slatted drainage system that allows good air circulation around the roots. The orchid needs a growing medium that provides adequate drainage while retaining necessary moisture. Orchid mixes composed of pine bark, charcoal, and sphagnum moss can create a suitable environment for Disperis circumflexa var. aemula.
Cultivation Methods for Disperis circumflexa (L.) T.Durand & Schinz var. aemula (Schltr.) Kraenzl.
Disperis circumflexa (L.) T.Durand & Schinz var. aemula (Schltr.) Kraenzl. is an orchid species that requires specific conditions for cultivation. It is best grown in pots or baskets filled with a well-draining growing medium, such as fir bark or sphagnum moss. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 18°C to 25°C, with high humidity levels.
It is recommended to provide this orchid with sufficient air circulation and moderate to bright indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it may scorch the leaves.
Watering Needs for Disperis circumflexa (L.) T.Durand & Schinz var. aemula (Schltr.) Kraenzl.
This orchid species requires consistent moisture, but not soaking wet soil. Water it once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure that the excess water drains out of the pot or basket to prevent waterlogging, as it may cause root rot.
Disperis circumflexa (L.) T.Durand & Schinz var. aemula (Schltr.) Kraenzl. also benefits from occasional misting to increase humidity around the leaves and pseudobulbs.
Fertilization Methods for Disperis circumflexa (L.) T.Durand & Schinz var. aemula (Schltr.) Kraenzl.
This orchid species requires regular fertilization to support healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced orchid fertilizer with a ratio of 20-20-20 or 30-10-10, diluted to half strength. Fertilize every two weeks during the active growth period, but reduce frequency during the dormant phase.
Avoid over-fertilization, as it may cause burning of the roots and leaves.
Pruning Methods for Disperis circumflexa (L.) T.Durand & Schinz var. aemula (Schltr.) Kraenzl.
Disperis circumflexa (L.) T.Durand & Schinz var. aemula (Schltr.) Kraenzl. does not require regular pruning; however, it may benefit from occasional trimming of dead or damaged leaves and pseudobulbs. Use a sterilized cutting tool and ensure that the cut is made close to the base to prevent infection.
It is recommended to remove the spent flower spikes to encourage the growth of new spikes and promote the orchid's overall health.
Propagation of Disperis circumflexa var. aemula
Disperis circumflexa var. aemula, commonly known as the Spotted Disperis, can be propagated by the following methods:
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate the plant is through seeds. Once the plant has formed seed capsules, remove them when they turn brown and dry them for a week or two. Then, separate the seeds from the seed capsule and store them in a cool, dry place until the next growing season.
Before sowing, soak the seeds overnight in warm water to soften the seed coat. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. Place the pot in a warm, bright spot but out of direct sunlight. Germination may take from 30 to 90 days.
Division Propagation
Another method of propagating Disperis circumflexa var. aemula is by division. Divide the roots in early spring or after flowering. Be careful not to damage the roots or tubers. Replant the divided clumps in fresh potting soil and keep it moist until new growth appears.
Cuttings Propagation
Disperis circumflexa var. aemula can also be propagated via stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings during the growing season, ensuring each cutting has at least one node. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place it in a warm and well-lit spot. Rooting may take several weeks to a few months.
Disease Management
Like most plants, Disperis circumflexa var. aemula is subject to several diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, and viruses. One of the most common diseases is black spot, caused by the fungus Alternaria alternata. Symptoms include black spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation if not managed well. To control black spot, prune affected leaves and apply fungicides such as copper-based sprays or neem oil.
Another common disease is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves and stems. Powdery mildew can be controlled by pruning affected parts and applying fungicides such as sulfur, copper-based sprays, or neem oil. Proper spacing and ventilation can also help prevent powdery mildew from developing.
Fusarium wilt is a one of the most devastating soil-borne diseases affecting Disperis circumflexa var. aemula. The disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum, which attacks the roots and vascular tissue of the plant. Infected plants display wilted leaves that eventually become yellow and die. To control Fusarium wilt, rotate crops, use clean planting material, and avoid using contaminated soil.
Pest Management
Disperis circumflexa var. aemula can also be damaged by several pests such as aphids, thrips, and caterpillars. Aphids are small insects that prefer feeding on the new growth, causing stunted growth and distortion. Controlling aphids can be achieved by using an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Thrips are tiny insects that also feed on the growth of disperis circumflexa var. aemula by puncturing and sucking the plant sap. Heavy infestations can lead to silvering symptoms and defoliation. To control thrips, spray the plant with insecticides such as spinosad, pyrethrin or neem oil.
Caterpillars can also cause significant damage to the leaves by chewing on the foliage. The most effective way of controlling caterpillars is by picking them off by hand and destroying them. Applying bacillus thuringiensis (BT) can also be an effective control measure for caterpillars.
