Spotted Coralroot
neotinea maculata
Also known as: ["Coralroot orchid","Spotted coralroot orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to Europe, characterized by its spotted leaves and reddish-brown flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Neotinea |
| Botanical Name: | Neotinea maculata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shady woodland garden or shaded rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days during dry periods
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging; must allow excess water to escape quickly.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite or coarse sand for aeration; may include a small amount of peat moss for moisture retention.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or if dead foliage is present; no regular schedule is necessary.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only; remove only dead, yellowing, or damaged parts without altering the plant's natur
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight, especially in summer; adjust light exposure gradually if moving from low to bright light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to higher light levels slowly over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun; for indoor plants, place near an east-facing window or use sheer curtains to filter light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use artificial grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure medium is well-aerated; avoid heavy garden soils; maintain slightly moist but not waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 15–20°C (59–68°F) during active growth; tolerates cooler temperatures down to 5°C (41°F) in dormancy.
Keep away from heat sources in winter; avoid placing near air conditioning vents in summer; maintain consistent temperatures to prevent shock.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in cooler months.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is the primary method, though challenging; division of mature clumps can be attempted if the plant forms multiple pseudobulbs.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- For seeds: sterilize equipment, sow on sterile medium, provide mycorrhizal inoculation if possible.
- For division: carefully separate pseudobulbs, repot immediately in fresh medium.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase; ensure the parent plant is healthy and robust before dividing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (20–25°C or 68–77°F), and indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with good aeration; avoid heavy soils that retain too much moisture.
Hormone
Not typically required for seed propagation; for division, no hormone is needed as the plant naturally forms new roots.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate and several years to reach maturity; division may produce new growth within a few months.
Tools Needed
Sterile scalpel or shears, sterile seed-starting medium, humidity dome, grow lights, heating mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure sterile conditions to prevent fungal contamination; provide consistent warmth and humidity for successful germination; be patient, as propagation is slow.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to snip dead leaves or flower spikes close to the base; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning is required; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves and spent flower spikes to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune only dead or damaged parts; make clean cuts close to the base; dispose of pruned material properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before the active growth period begins, allowing the plant to recover quickly.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by one standard size (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot) or 2–3 cm in diameter.
Method
Carefully remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix, and ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant outgrows its container or the medium decomposes (every 2–3 years); avoid repotting during dormancy.
Checklist
Use fresh orchid mix; ensure pot has drainage holes; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting; place in a stable environment post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the root zone; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
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 crown to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth in spring and early summer, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering significantly in late summer and winter to mimic natural dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse materials like perlite or orchid bark to improve aeration; use sphagnum moss for moisture retention without waterlogging; periodically flush soil to remove salts.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting or mushy roots in overly warm, humid conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, causing reduced growth and potential tissue damage if prolonged below 5°C (41°F); may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move plants away from drafty windows or cold surfaces; use a heating mat for bottom warmth if temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F); ensure soil is not overly wet during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting; high temperatures combined with low humidity may lead to bud drop or flower abortion.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate ventilation to prevent heat buildup; water more frequently if heat is prolonged.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth only; flush soil occasionally; avoid contact with roots directly.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and early summer); avoid fertilizing during dormancy (late summer and winter).
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Neotinea maculata may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not highly toxic to felines but can cause mild discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Neotinea maculata can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicNeotinea maculata contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant is not highly toxic but can induce discomfort in humans due to its irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Neotinea maculata suitable for beginners?
A: No, it is highly specialized and requires expert care.
Q: Does this orchid produce edible parts?
A: No, it is not known for any culinary or medicinal use.
Q: Where is Neotinea maculata typically found?
A: It is native to Europe, often in grasslands and woodland edges.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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