Fragrant Orchid
anacamptis coriophora
Also known as: ["Flea Orchid","Cockchafer Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species known for its fragrant, insect-like flowers and slender stems.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Anacamptis |
| Botanical Name: | Anacamptis coriophora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered, partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining orchid mix, such as a blend of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours per day. Can tolerate partial shade, especially during intense summer sun. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to brighter light to avoid scorching. Place in a spot with filtered sunlight or dappled shade, especially in hot climates. Indoors, position near an east or north-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingchallenging
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct midday sun; provide shade during peak summer; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic orchid mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure excellent drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 15–25°C (59–77°F). Tolerates cooler nights and can survive light frosts but should be protected from prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain moderate temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is the most common method, though challenging. Division of mature clumps can also be attempted but is less common.
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 and before flowering begins.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (20–25°C), and indirect light.
Medium
A specialized orchid seed medium or a mix of sphagnum moss and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seed propagation, but a rooting hormone may aid in division.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate and several years to reach flowering size. Division may root within a few weeks.
Tools Needed
Sterile containers, seed tray, sterilized knife, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile conditions to prevent contamination; maintain consistent moisture; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves or flower spikes at the base with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning is required. Focus on removing dead or damaged leaves and spent flower spikes to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged parts; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has good drainage.
Method
Carefully remove the plant, trim any dead roots, and repot in a fresh, well-draining orchid mix. Ensure the crown is not buried.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes overcrowded or the medium breaks down, typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove old medium; inspect roots; position plant correctly; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, avoiding the crown and leaves to prevent fungal issues. Ensure water penetrates the root zone thoroughly but does not pool. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during the growing season (spring to early summer), allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in late summer and fall to mimic natural dormancy. Avoid overwatering, especially during the dormant period.
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
Chlorosis or browning of leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or failure to flower in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow metabolic processes, leading to reduced growth or dormancy. Prolonged freezing can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move to a sheltered location. Ensure good air circulation to prevent cold-induced fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. High temperatures combined with dry conditions can lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently but carefully to prevent heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with roots directly.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted orchid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) at quarter strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAnacamptis coriophora is not known to be toxic to cats. No adverse effects have been documented in felines after exposure or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicAnacamptis coriophora is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicAnacamptis coriophora is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is a terrestrial orchid species with no reported adverse physiological impacts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anacamptis coriophora suitable for beginners?
A: No, due to its challenging care requirements, it is better suited for experienced orchid enthusiasts.
Q: Does this orchid attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can this plant be grown indoors?
A: It is primarily a wild orchid and thrives best in natural outdoor conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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