Spider Orchid
ophrys aranifera
Also known as: ["Spider Orchid","Spider-like Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species known for its distinctive spider-like flower morphology, native to Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Ophrys |
| Botanical Name: | Ophrys aranifera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or alpine trough in a sheltered, partially shaded spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- 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 pruning; remove only dead or non-functional parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural dappled light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingchallenging
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with dappled light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; monitor for leaf scorch.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogging during dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, rocky or sandy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix with large particles for air circulation; avoid heavy garden soils; repot if mix compacts.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (15–22°C); prefers cooler nights (10–15°C) during dormancy.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer after watering to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation (complex, requires symbiotic fungi); division of mature clumps (rare in cultivation).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature seeds.
- Prepare sterile medium with fungi.
- Sow seeds.
- Maintain high humidity.
- Divide mature plant carefully.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (20–25°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Specialized orchid mix with mycorrhizal fungi (for seeds); fresh orchid mix for division.
Hormone
Not applicable for seeds; rooting hormone may aid division if roots are damaged.
Timeline
Seeds: 1–2 years for germination; division: immediate establishment if healthy.
Tools Needed
Sterile scalpel, propagation case, orchid mix, mycorrhizal inoculant.
Quick Tips
Ensure sterile conditions for seeds; divide only healthy, mature plants; maintain consistent humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut spent flower spikes at the base; trim dead pseudobulbs with sterile shears.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged pseudobulbs and spent flower spikes.
Tools
Sterile pruning shears, disinfectant.
Checklist
Use sterile tools; cut at the base; dispose of removed parts to prevent disease.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late spring or early summer after flowering.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove old mix gently; trim dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting mix breaks down; essential for healthy root growth.
Checklist
Use fresh orchid mix; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure pot has drainage holes.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; 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 for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration with orchid bark.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf yellowing, or bud drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or root rot in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; can lead to root damage or fungal infections in cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and reduced flowering; may trigger premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; flush soil monthly.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (diluted to half strength) every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphrys aranifera is not toxic to cats. The plant has no known toxic effects on feline physiology, and ingestion or contact does not pose a risk.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicOphrys aranifera is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity or adverse effects in canines after exposure to this orchid.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicOphrys aranifera, commonly known as the Spider Orchid, is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant has no reported adverse effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophrys aranifera toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What does the Spider Orchid look like?
A: It has flowers resembling spiders, with a distinctive labellum mimicking a spider's body.
Q: How difficult is it to grow Ophrys aranifera?
A: It is challenging to grow due to specific habitat and pollination requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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