Lizard Orchid
himantoglossum hircinum
Also known as: ["Stinking Fox","Stinking Helleborine"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to Europe, known for its unusual lizard-like lip and strong, unpleasant odor.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Himantoglossum |
| Botanical Name: | Himantoglossum hircinum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid mix with components like bark, perlite, and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves and spent flower spikes.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun or dappled light; avoid intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to outdoor light if moving from indoors; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon rays; adjust shade levels seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid waterlogged soil to prevent rot; adjust frequency based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, alkaline soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy, compacted soils; maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures; ideal range 10–25°C (50–77°F); tolerates cooler nights during dormancy.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is the primary method; division of mature clumps is possible but rare in cultivation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature seeds.
- Sow on sterile medium.
- Maintain high humidity.
- For division, carefully separate rhizome sections with buds.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is emerging from dormancy and actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for seeds (often requires symbiotic fungi); division requires similar conditions to mature plants.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or a sterile seed-starting mix with perlite for seeds; division requires minimal disturbance to rhizomes.
Hormone
Not applicable for seeds; division requires no hormone.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 years to germinate and several years to mature; division may take 1–2 years to establish.
Tools Needed
Sterile containers, sphagnum moss, seed-starting mix, sharp knife (for division).
Quick Tips
Seeds require specific conditions; division should be done with minimal root disturbance; patience is essential.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead foliage at the base; cut flower spikes cleanly after blooming.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Remove dead foliage; cut spent flower spikes; sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger if repotting; ensure it has ample drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage; ensure the rhizome is at the soil surface.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, such as when the plant outgrows its container or the medium decomposes; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Use fresh orchid mix; ensure good drainage; position rhizome correctly; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry partially between waterings; reduce watering significantly in fall and cease entirely in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can inhibit metabolic processes, leading to slow growth or tissue damage; may enter dormancy prematurely.
Solution: Provide protection from frost (e.g., mulch, frost cloth); ensure good air circulation to prevent cold stagnation; maintain slightly drier soil during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, or premature dormancy; may lead to reduced flowering in subsequent seasons.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity if possible; water carefully to avoid overheating roots; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid dormant period; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during active growth (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHimantoglossum hircinum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicHimantoglossum hircinum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicHimantoglossum hircinum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though it is not typically used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Lizard Orchid edible?
A: No, it is not typically consumed by humans due to lack of culinary value and potential unknown toxicity.
Q: Why does the Lizard Orchid have a strong odor?
A: The odor mimics that of rotting flesh, which attracts specific pollinators such as flies and beetles.
Q: Can the Lizard Orchid be grown indoors?
A: It is challenging to grow indoors due to its specific habitat requirements and is best suited for outdoor cultivation in temperate climates.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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