Elderflower orchid
dactylorhiza sambucina
Also known as: ["Woodcock Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to Europe, known for its distinctive yellow or reddish-brown flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Dactylorhiza |
| Botanical Name: | Dactylorhiza sambucina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded rockery
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic, organic-rich mix; orchid mix with added perlite or sand works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves and stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; prefers dappled sunlight or bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter conditions to avoid leaf burn; protect from direct midday sun; in outdoor settings, place under tree canopies or shaded areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with dappled light
Avoid direct sun exposure; provide filtered light; monitor for signs of scorching.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid waterlogging, especially during dormancy; adjust frequency based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure soil is well-aerated; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture without saturation.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures; ideal range 10–20°C (50–68°F); tolerates cooler nights during dormancy.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent cool temperatures during dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; fertilize only when the plant is actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is common but challenging; division of mature clumps is more reliable for established plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divisions: Carefully separate clumps, replant immediately in fresh medium.
- Seeds: Sow on sterile medium, provide light, warmth, and humidity.
Best Time: Divide clumps in early spring before new growth begins; sow seeds in late summer or early fall to mimic natural conditions.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (18–22°C or 64–72°F), and indirect light for seedlings; divisions require similar conditions to mature plants.
Medium
Seedlings: sterile seed-starting mix; divisions: well-draining orchid or terrestrial orchid mix.
Hormone
Not typically required for divisions; for seeds, surface sterilization is more critical than rooting hormone.
Timeline
Seeds: 1–2 years for germination, several years to flowering; divisions: immediate establishment, flowering in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Sterile knife or scissors, pots, sterile medium, humidity dome or plastic bag, labels.
Quick Tips
Ensure divisions have healthy roots; maintain high humidity for seeds; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead foliage at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just as new growth begins, to minimize stress.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid or terrestrial orchid mix, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim dead roots; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to mimic dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss or compost for acidity and organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaves in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can halt growth and cause root damage if prolonged below 5°C (41°F); may enter dormancy prematurely.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop sharply.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may cause premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day to cool the plant; 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, water-soluble orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during active growth (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Dactylorhiza sambucina may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The roots and bulbs are the toxic parts, which can cause irritation and mild poisoning symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Dactylorhiza sambucina can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The roots and bulbs are the most toxic components, causing irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDactylorhiza sambucina contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's roots and bulbs are the primary toxic parts, containing irritants that affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dactylorhiza sambucina rare?
A: Yes, it is considered rare in many parts of its native range.
Q: Does this orchid require special care?
A: Yes, it requires specific growing conditions, including well-drained soil and partial shade.
Q: Does it attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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