Lizard orchid
Himantoglossum hircinum · Orchidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant lizard orchid: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Form
- Herbaceous
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- April to June
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
- Soil type
- Calcareous, well-drained
Care
Exposure
The goat orchis prefers partial shade to sunny exposure, particularly in grassy areas or natural meadows. Moderate light encourages generous flowering. Avoid dense shade which slows growth and flower spike formation.
Soil and habitat
This orchid prefers calcareous, well-drained soils that are rather dry to moderately moist. It adapts well to natural meadows, calcareous grasslands, and roadside verges. Soil rich in organic matter and free from compaction promotes the establishment of tubers.
Watering
The goat orchis requires only moderate watering: once established in the ground, the plant is satisfied with natural rainfall. In pots or dry conditions, keep the soil slightly moist during the growing period (autumn-spring) and allow it to dry out after flowering.
Fertilizing
A very diluted balanced fertilizer applied in spring is generally sufficient. In natural environments, the goat orchis draws its nutrients from the soil and does not require intensive fertilization. Avoid excess nitrogen which would favor foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
This wild orchid is generally very resistant. In overly humid conditions, watch for fungal rot at the tuber level. Slugs and snails can damage young shoots in spring; physical barriers or organic treatments are sufficient.
Did you know?
The goat orchis gets its common name from the characteristic goat-like odor that its flowers emit, particularly in late afternoon, to attract its specialized pollinators. This scent, often described as unpleasant, has fascinated botanists and naturalists since antiquity, and the plant is mentioned in medieval herbals as a remarkable species.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese ground orchidBletilla striata
- Moth orchidPhalaenopsis amabilis
- Spotted orchidDactylorhiza maculata
- Lesser twaybladeNeottia ovata
- Broad-leaved helleborineEpipactis helleborine
- Western Marsh-orchidDactylorhiza majalis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.