Passion Bee Orchid
ophrys passionis
Also known as: ["Spanish Bee Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to the Mediterranean region, known for its unique flower resembling a bee.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Ophrys |
| Botanical Name: | Ophrys passionis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid-specific potting mix with bark, perlite, and charcoal for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically after flowering or when dead material is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing healthy growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense midday sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural dappled light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains to filter light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix designed for epiphytic orchids; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (18–24°C); cooler nights (10–15°C) can promote flowering.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent day/night cycles; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is common but challenging; division of mature clumps is possible for established plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare sterile medium.
- Divide clump carefully.
- Plant divisions at appropriate depth.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); warm temperatures (20–25°C); indirect light.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or orchid-specific potting mix with good drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; sterile conditions are crucial for seed propagation.
Timeline
Seed germination can take months to years; division may take 1–2 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sterile knife, potting mix, humidity dome, clean containers.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent infection; keep seedlings in a stable environment; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut spent flower spikes at the base; remove dead pseudobulbs carefully with sterilized scissors.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged pseudobulbs and spent flower spikes.
Tools
Sterilized pruning shears, scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead material; avoid over-pruning; clean debris from pot.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, after flowering, when new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting mix breaks down; necessary for mature plants to prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (too hot); stunted growth (too cold); bud drop (fluctuations).
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 10°C.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may halt flowering.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but ensure drainage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Dilute fertilizer; water first; apply to moist soil; flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphrys passionis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known substances that are harmful to felines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOphrys passionis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases or studies indicating that ingestion of this plant causes harm to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOphrys passionis is not known to exhibit any toxic effects on humans. The plant is not documented to contain any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological impacts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophrys passionis easy to grow?
A: No, it is challenging and requires expert care due to its specific environmental needs.
Q: Does this orchid attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flower mimics a bee, attracting bees for pollination.
Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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