Man Orchid
orchis anthropophora
Also known as: ["Acianthus anthropophorus","Orchis anthropophorum"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to Europe, notable for its unique flower shape resembling a human figure.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Orchis |
| Botanical Name: | Orchis anthropophora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden or shaded outdoor pot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry climates or heated indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid-specific mix (bark, sphagnum moss, perlite) for good aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when pseudobulbs die back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on plant condition.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Avoid direct sunlight, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
partial shade with dappled light
Use sheer curtains to filter light; rotate plant monthly for even exposure; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in dormancy
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogged conditions; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use orchid mix; ensure drainage holes; avoid heavy potting soils.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 10–20°C (50–68°F). Prefers cooler nights (5–10°C) during dormancy.
Keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care based on seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid-specific fertilizer, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize after watering; flush periodically to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is common but challenging; division of pseudobulbs is possible for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Clean and sterilize tools.
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or divide pseudobulbs.
- Maintain high humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (20–25°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or orchid-specific seed medium for seeds; fine bark mix for division.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may aid seed germination.
Timeline
Seeds: 1–2 years to germinate; division: 1–2 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sterilized scissors, propagation case, sterile medium, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Maintain sterile conditions; provide consistent moisture; be patient with seed germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; remove dead pseudobulbs at their base with sterilized tools.
Pruning Plan
Focus on removing spent flower spikes and dead or damaged pseudobulbs to encourage new growth.
Tools
Sterilized sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at the base; remove only dead/damaged parts; clean debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer, after flowering and before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter if necessary.
Method
Remove old medium, trim dead roots, repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage, and water sparingly until established.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the medium breaks down. Necessary if roots outgrow the pot.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; sterilize tools; trim roots; use fresh medium; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the medium. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during dormancy, increasing frequency during active growth (spring/summer) with reduced watering in fall/winter. Allow the medium to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse bark to improve drainage; use sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning, bud drop, stunted growth, or fungal infections in overly warm/humid conditions.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can halt growth and cause root damage, though brief cold periods may induce dormancy.
Solution: Provide insulation (e.g., mulch), avoid drafts, and maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and premature flowering.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growth periods; flush periodically; avoid dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) at quarter strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOrchis anthropophora is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicOrchis anthropophora is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicOrchis anthropophora is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It has no documented adverse effects when handled or ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orchis anthropophora edible?
A: No, it is not recommended for consumption due to unknown toxicity.
Q: How does this orchid get its name?
A: The common name 'Man Orchid' derives from the flower's resemblance to a human figure.
Q: Where can I find Orchis anthropophora in the wild?
A: It is native to grasslands and woodland edges in parts of Europe, particularly in France, Spain, and Italy.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade with dappled lig |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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