Early Spider Orchid
ophrys sphegodes
Also known as: ["Early Spider Orchid","Spider Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to Europe, known for its unique flower resembling a spider.
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 sphegodes |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid mix with bark, perlite, and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to brighter light; provide shade during peak sun hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging during dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with added sand or perlite
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; use sterile mix to prevent pathogens.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (15–22°C); tolerates cooler nights (10–15°C) during dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent night/day cycles; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is common but challenging; division of mature clumps is possible but rare in cultivation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature seeds.
- Sterilize tools.
- Sow seeds on sterile medium.
- Maintain high humidity.
- Wait for germination.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (20–25°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or sterile orchid mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for natural propagation; specialized orchid hormones may aid seed germination.
Timeline
Seed germination can take months to years; division may establish in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Sterile scalpel, sterile medium, humidity dome, grow lights.
Quick Tips
Maintain sterile conditions to prevent fungal growth; provide consistent moisture; be patient with seed germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base after blooming; trim dead leaves with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves and spent flower spikes.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruners, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; cut spent flowers at base; remove yellowing leaves; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage; water sparingly until established.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down; necessary for mature plants to refresh nutrients.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim old roots; 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; reduce watering in winter.
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 to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow metabolic processes, leading to poor growth or root damage if prolonged below 10°C.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature flowering.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use reflective mulch.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; flush soil occasionally; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during active growth (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphrys sphegodes is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks known toxic compounds that would pose a health risk to felines if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThere are no documented cases or studies indicating that Ophrys sphegodes is toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that would be harmful to canines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOphrys sphegodes, commonly known as the Early Spider Orchid, is not known to exhibit any toxic effects on humans. The plant is not documented to produce any known toxins that would cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophrys sphegodes toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What is the care difficulty of Ophrys sphegodes?
A: It is considered expert only due to its specific growing requirements.
Q: Does Ophrys sphegodes attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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