The Genus Disa

Disa Orchids have been known and appreciated for years.  The genus was first described in the 1767 by Berg and the first hybrid registered in 1891 by Veitch.  Between 1891 and 1922, only 11 hybrids were registered. During the World Wars, interest waned followed by a resurgence in the 1980's. Since 1981, over 200 new hybrids have been registered. The latest revision of the Genus Disa is found in the book by Linder and Kurzweil in the References  page

In nature, Disas are mostly found in southern and eastern Africa.  They are deciduous or evergreen terrestrial plants with both tuberous and stoloniferous root systems. They are found from sea level to about 7000 feet. They grow in full sun to partial shade. They seem to require that whatever the growing conditions, their roots remain cool and moist.

The Pride of Table Mountain, or Disa uniflora, is probably the most noteworthy example of the genus. Growing to a height of around three feet, and commonly bearing up to six, 4 to 5 inch flowers, it can be truly a gorgeous sight.

While there are about 162 species known, only a few are  commonly grown. The easily grown evergreen species include D. uniflora, D. cardinalis, D. aurata, D. tripetaloides, and D. racemosa, D. venosa, and D. caulescens. A small number of deciduous Disas are also grown, although they can present quite a challenge.