Green Bee Orchid
ophrys fusca
Also known as: ["Early Bee Orchid","Fusca Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to the Mediterranean region, known for its unique flower resembling a bee.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Ophrys |
| Botanical Name: | Ophrys fusca |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or raised bed with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid mix with bark, perlite, and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or as needed to remove dead material.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; avoid removing healthy growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sun, especially in summer; adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense midday sun; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingchallenging
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a well-aerated mix; avoid heavy soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (15–25°C); cooler conditions (10–15°C) during dormancy in fall-winter; avoid extreme fluctuations.
Monitor room temperature; avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable conditions during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation (challenging); division of mature clumps (less common); tissue culture (laboratory setting).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature seeds.
- Prepare sterile medium.
- Sow seeds.
- Maintain high humidity.
- Wait for germination.
- Transplant seedlings once established.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is actively growing; division should be done after flowering.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (20–25°C); indirect light; sterile conditions for seeds.
Medium
Specialized orchid mix or sterile seed medium; requires specific conditions for germination.
Hormone
Not applicable for seed propagation; division may benefit from gentle handling without hormones.
Timeline
Seed propagation can take 1–3 years to germinate and establish; division may take 1–2 growing seasons to recover.
Tools Needed
Sterile containers, scalpel, forceps, sterile medium, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Maintain sterile conditions; provide consistent warmth and humidity; be patient with seed germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut spent flower spikes at the base; remove dead pseudobulbs carefully to avoid damaging healthy ones.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged pseudobulbs and spent flower spikes.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead material; avoid over-pruning; clean debris from pot.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, after flowering, when the plant is entering active growth.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); 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 medium breaks down; necessary to refresh nutrients and improve drainage.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh orchid mix; 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 for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; ensure water penetrates the root zone; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 organic matter like orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaves; stunted growth; bud drop; wilting despite adequate water.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; can lead to root damage or death if temperatures drop below 5°C for extended periods.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may trigger premature flowering or dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use reflective surfaces to deflect heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; flush periodically; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during active growth (spring-summer); cease in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphrys fusca is not toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts on felines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOphrys fusca is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity or adverse physiological effects in canines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOphrys fusca, commonly known as the green-winged orchid, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impacts when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophrys fusca suitable for beginners?
A: No, due to its specific growing requirements, it is best suited for experienced orchid growers.
Q: Does Ophrys fusca attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers mimic bees, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Ophrys fusca be grown indoors?
A: It is challenging to grow indoors due to its specific light and temperature needs; it thrives best outdoors in its native habitat.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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