Bertoloni's Bee Orchid
ophrys bertolonii
Also known as: ["Bertoloni's Bee Orchid","Bertoloni's Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to the Mediterranean region, known for its unique bee-like flower structure.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Ophrys |
| Botanical Name: | Ophrys bertolonii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shady rock garden or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- 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 a small amount of charcoal for aeration and drainage.
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; remove only non-viable parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; adjust to avoid leaf burn, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct midday sun; provide dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for indoor light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; adjust frequency based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil with some sand
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use well-aerated mix; avoid heavy potting soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (18–24°C); cooler (10–15°C) during winter dormancy to encourage blooming.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent day/night differentials; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; use a fertilizer with higher nitrogen content during growth; flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs; seed propagation is challenging and requires specialized conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate pseudobulbs with at least 2–3 growths.
- Pot in fresh medium.
- Water sparingly until new roots form.
Best Time: After flowering, when new growth begins (late spring to early summer).
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), humid (60–70%), and shaded environment with indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may aid seed propagation.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment if healthy; seed: 1–2 years for germination and several years to flowering.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, sterile potting medium, small pots.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy roots; keep divisions stable in pot; avoid overwatering new divisions.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut 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 or scissors.
Checklist
Use sterile tools; cut dead or damaged parts; avoid cutting healthy pseudobulbs.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late spring to early summer, after flowering and before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it allows 1–2 years of growth without being excessively large.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage; position pseudobulbs above soil level.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when medium decomposes; necessary to refresh nutrients and improve drainage.
Checklist
Use fresh medium; ensure good drainage; position pseudobulbs correctly; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry. Avoid wetting the pseudobulbs or leaves to prevent rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter dormancy.
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
Leaf yellowing or browning; stunted growth; bud drop; pseudobulb shriveling.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can cause root rot and hinder nutrient uptake, leading to weak growth.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch leaves, cause dehydration, and disrupt metabolic processes.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil monthly.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (diluted to half strength) every 4–6 weeks during active growth; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphrys bertolonii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this orchid species.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOphrys bertolonii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this orchid species.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOphrys bertolonii is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is a terrestrial orchid species with no reported adverse physiological impacts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophrys bertolonii toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What is the care difficulty of Ophrys bertolonii?
A: It is considered expert only due to its specific growing requirements.
Q: Does Ophrys bertolonii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and other pollinators due to its bee-like flower structure.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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