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Burnt orchid

Neotinea ustulata · Orchidaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant burnt orchid: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Family
Orchidaceae
Type
Perennial herbaceous
Flowering
April to June
Adult size
15 to 40 cm in height
Foliage
Deciduous (disappears in winter)
Hardiness
Hardy (down to -15°C)
Origin
Europe, Mediterranean, Western Asia
Natural habitat
Dry meadows, calcareous grasslands

Care

Light exposure

Choose a sunny or lightly shaded location. This terrestrial orchid appreciates areas where it receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily. Too much shade will slow flowering and promote rot.

Soil and substrate

Plant in well-draining, calcareous or neutral soil, rich in humus. Natural meadows and dry grasslands are its preferred environments. Avoid overly compact or waterlogged soils that cause root rot.

Watering

Keep the soil slightly moist during growth (spring to early summer). Gradually reduce watering after flowering, then stop during the summer-autumn rest period. In cultivation, let the substrate dry at the surface between waterings.

Fertilizer

Apply low-nitrogen fertilizer (type 5-10-10) once or twice during the growing season. Terrestrial orchids are not heavy feeders; moderate mineral application is sufficient for good development.

Pruning and maintenance

No pruning is necessary. Simply remove faded flower stems after blooming. Let the foliage wither naturally before cutting it back to ground level in late autumn.

Diseases and pests

Watch for root rot from excessive moisture. Slugs and snails enjoy young shoots: protect them early in the season if needed. Good air circulation limits fungal attacks.

Did you know?

The Burnt Orchis gets its French name from the characteristic appearance of its small flowers: the top of the flower spikes displays a dark, almost blackened hue, giving the impression of being 'burnt'. This wild orchid is a discreet species of Mediterranean grasslands, once far more common, now threatened by the loss of its natural habitats.

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.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.