During the first few months of the year one of the greatest attractions of Table Mountain is the Red Disa Flower. Relatively rare, this bright flower is the floral emblem to the Western Cape and always a pleasure to see.

The Disa is a South African Orchid of which 131 species are present. The name Disa originated in Swedish mythology!! This a result of being first described by a Swedish botanist in the 1700′s. The Disa of mythology was a young woman presented to the king wearing a fish net!

Disa uniflora, is the correct scientific name for the more commonly named “red disa” or “Pride of Table Mountain” It is pollinated by the mountain pride butterfly which is very strongly attracted to the colour red and will be attracted to a red hiking bag or socks as much as to the flower.

Places to see the Disa on Table Mountain are in the perenial streams or permanently damp areas. Thus the Aquaduct, Window Gorge, and Myburghs Waterall offer some of the best viewing.

Red Disa in the Aquaduct. Table Mountain

An abundance of Red Disa's.