Proserpine's Helleborine
himantoglossum robertianum
Also known as: ["Proserpine's Helleborine","Long-lipped Orchid"]
Overview
A rare terrestrial orchid species native to the Mediterranean region, known for its striking, elongated lip and delicate flowers.
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 robertianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, alpine trough, or well-drained raised bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite and a small amount of peat moss for moisture retention.
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; protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; provide shade during peak hours; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense midday sun
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Soil
well-draining, rocky or sandy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a well-aerated mix; avoid heavy garden soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (10–20°C); prefers cooler nights; tolerates mild heat but not extreme temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; apply to moist soil to avoid salt buildup; stop fertilizing during dormancy.
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.
- Wait for germination.
- Transplant seedlings once established.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and shaded environment with consistent moisture.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or orchid-specific seed starting mix.
Hormone
Not applicable for seed propagation; division may benefit from a mild rooting hormone.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate; division may establish in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Sterile containers, sphagnum moss, humidity dome, grow lights.
Quick Tips
Maintain sterile conditions to prevent mold; provide consistent warmth and humidity; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back dead growth to the base; snip spent flower spikes just above the next bud if desired.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain plant health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged parts; avoid cutting healthy growth; clean up debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger with adequate drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage; water sparingly until established.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes pot-bound or the medium breaks down (every 2–3 years).
Checklist
Prepare new pot and mix; handle roots gently; ensure proper drainage; avoid overwatering post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; reduce watering in dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring) and reduce significantly in summer dormancy; avoid watering in winter unless soil is extremely dry.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage, or lead to fungal issues in overly moist conditions.
Solution: Provide insulation (e.g., mulch), avoid overwatering, and move to a warmer location if temperatures drop below 5°C.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf burn, dehydration, and reduced flowering; may enter dormancy prematurely.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water early in the day to minimize heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter/spring dormancy; rinse soil occasionally to prevent salt accumulation.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize once a month during active growth (spring); avoid fertilizing in summer dormancy or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Himantoglossum robertianum may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. While not highly toxic, the plant can cause discomfort and should be kept out of reach of felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Himantoglossum robertianum may result in mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines, but care should be taken to prevent consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHimantoglossum robertianum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic, but consumption may lead to discomfort due to its irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Himantoglossum robertianum easy to grow?
A: No, it is considered very challenging and is best suited for expert orchid growers.
Q: Does this plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Is this orchid toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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