Ophrys sphegodes
TAXONOMY
FamilyOrchidaceae
GenusOphrys
Zone8
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Ophrys sphegodes, commonly known as the Early Spider Orchid, is a member of the Orchidaceae family and is native to Europe. It is a tuberous geophyte that thrives in subtropical climates. This orchid is known for its unique flower that mimics the appearance of a spider, which helps in attracting pollinators. The plant undergoes a dormancy period during the summer months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Bee Orchid
Early Spider Orchid
Wasp Orchid
Ophrys arachnites var. exaltata
Ophrys aranifera f. elongata
Ophrys aranifera f. latipetala
Ophrys aranifera f. peralba
Ophrys aranifera f. pseudaranifera
Ophrys aranifera f. pseudomuscifera
Ophrys aranifera f. purpurea
Ophrys aranifera f. semilunaris
Ophrys aranifera f. subfucifera
Ophrys aranifera f. valdecornuta
Ophrys aranifera subsp. exaltata
Ophrys aranifera subsp. fuchsii
Ophrys aranifera var. aurantiaca
Ophrys aranifera var. euchlora
Ophrys aranifera var. flavescens
Ophrys aranifera var. fuchsii
Ophrys aranifera var. gigantea
Ophrys aranifera var. limbata
Ophrys aranifera var. panormitana
Ophrys aranifera var. rotulata
Ophrys aranifera var. subfucifera
Ophrys exaltata f. egibossa
Ophrys exaltata f. toscanensis
Ophrys exaltata var. ambigua
Ophrys fuciflora subsp. exaltata
Ophrys galeopsidea
Ophrys insectifera var. arachnites
Ophrys insectifera var. pallescens
Ophrys insectifera var. rubescens
Ophrys sphegodes subsp. aranifera
Ophrys sphegodes subsp. gigantea
Ophrys sphegodes subsp. panormitana
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Ophrys sphegodes requires indirect bright light and moderate temperatures to thrive. It prefers a humid environment and should be watered when the soil is almost completely dry. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. This orchid can be grown both indoors and outdoors, provided it is protected from direct sunlight.Soil
The Early Spider Orchid prefers well-draining loam soil. It is important to ensure that the soil dries out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot. A mix of loam with some sand can help improve drainage.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during its growing season, typically in the spring and early summer, every two weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormancy period.Repotting
Repotting should be done every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot. The best time to repot is during the dormancy period. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, trim any dead roots, and place it in a new pot with fresh loam soil.Propagation
Ophrys sphegodes can be propagated through division of its tubers. The best time to propagate is during the dormancy period. Carefully separate the tubers and plant them in individual pots with well-draining loam soil.Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for this orchid. However, you can remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and health.Toxicity
Ophrys sphegodes is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to avoid any accidental ingestion.Additional
Ensure that the plant is protected from strong winds and heavy rains if grown outdoors. Regularly check for pests such as aphids and spider mites, and treat them promptly to prevent infestations.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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