Spider Orchid
ophrys arachnitiformis
Also known as: ["Spider Orchid","Arachnoid Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species known for its unique spider-like floral morphology, native to Mediterranean regions.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Ophrys |
| Botanical Name: | Ophrys arachnitiformis |
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":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Orchid mix with components like fir bark, sphagnum moss, perlite, and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
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 daily. Adjust to dappled light outdoors or filtered light indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to stronger light to prevent scorching. Protect from direct midday sun, especially in summer. Indoors, place near an east or north window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingchallenging
Sunlight
partial shade
Avoid direct sun; provide filtered light; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; adjust frequency based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, slightly alkaline orchid mix
pH: Slightly acidic, pH 5.5–6.5.
Ensure excellent drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–65°F (10–18°C) during active growth, cooler in winter dormancy.
Keep cool in summer; protect from frost; maintain stable temperatures during dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during growing season; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is the primary method, though challenging. Division of mature clumps is possible but rare in cultivation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature seeds.
- Sterilize equipment.
- Sow seeds on sterile medium.
- Maintain high humidity and light.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or specialized orchid seed medium under sterile conditions.
Hormone
Not applicable for seed propagation; division may benefit from rooting hormone.
Timeline
Seeds may take months to germinate and years to flower. Division may establish in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Sterile containers, sterilizing solution, humidity dome, grow lights.
Quick Tips
Maintain sterile conditions; provide consistent humidity; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base. Cut flower spikes just above the next bud or to the base if spent.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Focus on removing dead or damaged leaves and spent flower spikes.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove dead foliage; cut spent flower spikes; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger or only slightly larger than the current container.
Method
Carefully remove the plant, trim dead roots, and repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage. Position the plant at the same depth as before.
Suggestions
Repot only when the potting medium breaks down or the plant outgrows its container, typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim dead roots; use fresh orchid mix; position plant correctly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, avoiding foliage. Ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
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 organic matter like sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can halt growth and cause root damage, though it tolerates cooler temperatures during dormancy.
Solution: Ensure good air circulation and avoid drafts. In winter, maintain a stable cool temperature rather than freezing conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf burn, or premature flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and ensure adequate ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphrys arachnitiformis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicOphrys arachnitiformis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicOphrys arachnitiformis is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant has no reported adverse effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophrys arachnitiformis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What makes this orchid challenging to care for?
A: It requires specific growing conditions, including well-drained soil, bright indirect light, and careful watering to prevent rot.
Q: Does this orchid attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its spider-like flowers mimic the appearance of spiders, attracting specific pollinators such as bees.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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