Bird's-nest Orchid
neottia nidus-avis
Also known as: ["Nest Orchid","Cadaverous Orchid"]
Overview
A mycoheterotrophic orchid that lacks chlorophyll and derives nutrients from fungi. It is characterized by its yellowish-brown, leafless stem and distinctive inflorescence.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Neottia |
| Botanical Name: | Neottia nidus-avis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland floor or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic orchid mix with added organic matter like sphagnum moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead material is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Low to medium indirect light; tolerates shade well. Avoid direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light if needed; protect from harsh afternoon sun; suitable for shaded indoor or outdoor spots.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
partial to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide shade; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure fast drainage; maintain slight acidity; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C). Prefers cooler conditions, especially in winter.
Keep cool in summer; protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if at all
Use weak fertilizer; avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize only in growing season.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or spores (challenging).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully.
- Plant in appropriate medium.
- Maintain high humidity.
- Wait for new growth.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent cool temperatures.
Medium
Humid, well-drained medium like sphagnum moss or orchid mix.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; spore propagation may benefit from sterile conditions.
Timeline
Rhizome division may take months to establish; spore propagation can take years.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, sterile medium, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Work carefully to avoid damage; maintain humidity; be patient with growth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead or yellowing parts at the base; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged parts to maintain health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger if necessary, ensuring good drainage.
Method
Carefully remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining orchid mix; ensure minimal root disturbance.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, as the plant is sensitive to disturbance. Typically every 2–3 years or if the pot is overcrowded.
Checklist
Use well-draining mix; handle roots gently; ensure proper drainage; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Allow excess water to drain freely. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; rot or mold in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage or fungal issues in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil; protect from frost; maintain consistent, cool temperatures.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water carefully to avoid overheating roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Fertilize sparingly, if at all. Use a diluted, balanced orchid fertilizer once every 6–8 weeks during active growth.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicNeottia nidus-avis is not toxic to cats. The plant lacks toxic compounds that would cause harm to felines upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicNeottia nidus-avis is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would pose a health risk to canines if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicNeottia nidus-avis, commonly known as bird's-nest orchid, is not considered toxic to humans. It lacks significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Bird's-nest Orchid poisonous to humans?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to humans.
Q: How does the Bird's-nest Orchid obtain nutrients?
A: It is mycoheterotrophic, meaning it derives nutrients from fungi rather than photosynthesis.
Q: Can the Bird's-nest Orchid be grown in a typical home garden?
A: It is extremely challenging to cultivate outside its natural habitat due to its specialized relationship with fungi.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial to full shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
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