Pheasant's-beak
ophrys scolopax
Also known as: ["Pheasant's-beak Orchid","Snout Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to Europe, known for its distinctive flower resembling a pheasant's beak.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Ophrys |
| Botanical Name: | Ophrys scolopax |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shady rock garden or indoor pot with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when pseudobulbs die back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only non-viable parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sun, especially in summer; adjust for lower light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to brighter light; protect from intense midday sun; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging during dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic orchid mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure medium is well-aerated; avoid compacted soil; flush periodically to remove salts.
Temperature
Prefers 18–24°C (64–75°F) during active growth; cooler temperatures (10–15°C or 50–59°F) during dormancy promote blooming.
Maintain stable temperatures; avoid sudden fluctuations; provide cooler conditions during winter dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs during repotting; mature pseudobulbs can be separated and repotted individually.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Carefully remove plant from pot.
- Identify healthy pseudobulbs with roots.
- Divide with clean cuts.
- Repot each division in fresh medium.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; maintain stable temperatures around 20–22°C (68–72°F).
Medium
Standard orchid mix with added perlite for aeration.
Hormone
Not typically required for pseudobulb division.
Timeline
New growth may appear within 4–6 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, sterile potting mix, small pots.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has at least one healthy pseudobulb and roots; water sparingly until new growth appears.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut spent flower spikes at the base; trim dead pseudobulbs with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged pseudobulbs and spent flower spikes.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead or damaged parts; avoid over-pruning healthy growth; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late spring or early summer, after flowering and before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, ensuring it fits the root system comfortably.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim dead roots; place in a pot with fresh orchid mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the medium breaks down; necessary to refresh nutrients and improve drainage.
Checklist
Prepare new pot and mix; trim roots if necessary; position plant correctly; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting the pseudobulbs or leaves; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate orchid bark for aeration; use charcoal to absorb impurities.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf spotting in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, leading to reduced growth and potential root damage.
Solution: Provide a warm, sheltered environment; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, and premature wilting.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; flush periodically; avoid contact with pseudobulbs.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; cease fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphrys scolopax is not toxic to cats. This orchid species has no reported harmful effects on felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicOphrys scolopax is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this orchid species.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicOphrys scolopax is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is a terrestrial orchid species with no reported adverse physiological impacts.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophrys scolopax toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How difficult is it to grow Ophrys scolopax?
A: It is challenging to grow due to its specific habitat requirements.
Q: Does Ophrys scolopax attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts 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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