Woodcock bee-orchid
Ophrys scolopax · Orchidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant woodcock bee-orchid: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Form
- Herbaceous
- Flowering
- February to April
- Mature size
- 15 to 40 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, basal rosette
- Hardiness
- Hardy, zones 6 to 9
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin and Southern Europe
- Natural habitat
- Dry meadows, calcareous grasslands
Care
Light
Bee Ophrys prefers full sun to part shade, with at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In hot Mediterranean climates, light afternoon shade can be beneficial. This wild orchid adapts well to natural bright light, similar to its native habitat.
Soil
Well-draining, calcareous or neutral soil is essential to prevent bulb rot. Bee Ophrys prefers light, poor substrates low in organic matter and dry in summer. If growing in a pot, use a special orchid mix or mineral potting soil with added gravel.
Watering
Water moderately in autumn and winter during the growing period, taking care not to waterlog the soil. In spring and especially summer, drastically reduce watering: this orchid needs a marked dry period. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is rarely necessary if the soil is poor, as in nature. If you wish to fertilize, apply only very diluted fertilizer (orchid formula) once or twice during the growing season. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
The main problems are related to excessive moisture: bulb and root rot. Ensure perfect drainage and adequate ventilation. In cultivation, pests are rare. Monitor foliage regularly and quickly remove any affected parts.
Did you know?
Bee Ophrys is famous for its unique pollination system: its flower mimics the appearance and scent of female solitary wasps, attracting males that attempt to mate with the flower. This remarkable illusion, studied since the 19th century, makes this small orchid a jewel of evolution and a star of contemporary botany.
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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- Western Marsh-orchidDactylorhiza majalis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.