Ophrys tenthredinifera
TAXONOMY
FamilyOrchidaceae
GenusOphrys
Zone9
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Ophrys tenthredinifera, commonly known as the Sawfly Orchid, is a species of orchid native to the Mediterranean region. It is a tuberous geophyte, meaning it grows from tubers and is adapted to survive in its native subtropical climate. The plant is known for its striking flowers that mimic the appearance of female insects to attract male pollinators.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Arachnites Limbata
Arachnites Tenthrediniferus
Sawfly Orchid
Ophrys amphidami
Ophrys aprilia
Ophrys arachnites
Ophrys dictynnae
Ophrys di-stefani
Ophrys fusca
Ophrys grandiflora
Ophrys hookeri
Ophrys insectifera var. rosea
Ophrys korae
Ophrys leochroma
Ophrys leochroma var. sanctae-marcellae
Ophrys limbata
Ophrys lychnitis
Ophrys lycomedis
Ophrys neglecta
Ophrys neglecta var. riphaea
Ophrys ×normanii
Ophrys riphaea
Ophrys rosea
Ophrys spectabilis
Ophrys tabanifera
Ophrys tenoreana
Ophrys tenthredinifera f. choffatii
Ophrys tenthredinifera f. davei
Ophrys tenthredinifera f. ficalhoana
Ophrys tenthredinifera f. lutescens
Ophrys tenthredinifera f. praecox
Ophrys tenthredinifera f. serotina
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. aprilia
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. dictynnae
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. ficalhoana
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. grandiflora
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. guimaraesii
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. leochroma
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. neglecta
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. praecox
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. sanctae-marcellae
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. spectabilis
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. tingurtiae
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. ulyssea
Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. villosa
Ophrys tenthredinifera var. ficalhoana
Ophrys tenthredinifera var. glabrescens
Ophrys tenthredinifera var. guimaraesii
Ophrys tenthredinifera var. lutescens
Ophrys tetuanensis
Ophrys ulyssea
Ophrys villosa
Ophrys villosa var. sanctae-marcellae
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
To care for Ophrys tenthredinifera, provide it with bright, indirect light and maintain moderate temperatures. The plant prefers a humid environment, so occasional misting may be beneficial. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings.Soil
Ophrys tenthredinifera thrives in well-draining loam soil. Ensure the soil mix allows for good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the plant's tubers.Fertilizer
This orchid does not have high fertilizer requirements. If desired, a balanced, diluted orchid fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the growing season.Repotting
Repotting should be done during the plant's dormant period, typically in late summer or early autumn. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, inspect the tubers, and place it in fresh, well-draining soil.Propagation
Propagation of Ophrys tenthredinifera is typically done through division of the tubers. This should be done during the dormant period. Ensure each division has at least one healthy tuber and some roots.Pruning
Pruning is not generally required for this orchid. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and appearance.Toxicity
Ophrys tenthredinifera is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with all plants, it is best to keep it out of reach of pets and children to avoid any potential issues.Additional
Ophrys tenthredinifera is a fascinating plant due to its unique pollination strategy. The flowers mimic the appearance and scent of female insects, attracting male insects that attempt to mate with the flower, thereby facilitating pollination.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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