Himantoglossum robertianum
Himantoglossum robertianum · Orchidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant himantoglossum robertianum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Type
- Terrestrial herbaceous orchid
- Flowering
- April to May
- Mature size
- 20 to 60 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous (disappears in summer)
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15 °C)
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin and Southern Europe
- Light
- Sun to partial shade
Care
Exposure and location
Plant Robert's barlia in a sunny to partially shaded location, sheltered from strong winds. This terrestrial orchid prefers a well-drained spot where it receives at least a few hours of direct sun. Ideally, install it on a slope, in a rockery, or in a dry meadow to respect its natural habitat.
Soil and planting
Choose very well-drained soil, preferably calcareous or neutral, with a light and permeable structure. Enrich the substrate with sand or gravel. Avoid stagnant moisture in winter, which would promote rot of the underground tubers.
Watering
Water moderately during spring growth until flowering. Gradually reduce watering after flowering and let the plant dry out completely in summer during its dormancy period. Permanently moist soil risks compromising the tubers.
Nutrition
Nutritional inputs are generally limited. Spread a thin layer of mature compost at the base of the plant each autumn, or apply a highly diluted fertilizer in spring if the soil is poor. Excessive enrichment can reduce flowering.
Pruning and cleanup
No pruning is necessary. Simply let the vegetation wither naturally after flowering. You can remove spent flowers if you wish, but keep the stems to allow the plant to accumulate energy in its tubers.
Diseases and pests
Robert's barlia is generally robust. Monitor excessive winter moisture, which can lead to rot. If growing in containers, ensure impeccable drainage. Slugs and snails may occasionally damage young shoots: a well-drained and airy environment reduces these risks.
Did you know?
Robert's barlia owes its common name to 19th-century French botanist Henry Robert. Its distinctive reddish-brown flowers present a labellum remarkably resembling a small insect or climbing lizard: this deceptive mimicry is thought to be an ancient pollination strategy, although the exact mechanism remains debated by botanists.
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
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.