Disa stricta leaves

The above-ground parts of Disa stricta, the flowers and leaves, appear in a growing season mini-drama among the grasses of the Drakensberg. Although usually less than half a metre tall, the plant succeeds in attracting pollinator attention to its flowers in this habitual setting. The leaves see enough sun for photosynthesis to feed and grow the tuber.

The narrow leaves beside the flower stem are rigidly erect. These leaves are almost linear and acutely pointed. Leaf length is about 20 cm, their tips below the flowers (Pooley, 1998; iNaturalist; https://www.pacificbulbsociety.org).