Milk-white Orchid
neotinea lactea
Also known as: ["Pink Butterfly Orchid","White Butterfly Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to the Mediterranean region, known for its striking white and pink flowers arranged in a dense spike.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Neotinea |
| Botanical Name: | Neotinea lactea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shady rock garden or woodland setting, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days during active growth, especially in dry climates, rarely in dormancy
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite and 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 when dead material is evident.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Direct sunlight should be avoided, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light if moving from shade. Protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or north window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled sunlight
Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 3–4 weeks in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, slightly alkaline orchid mix or loamy soil with added sand
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use orchid-specific mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soils.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions (10°C) in winter but avoids frost.
Protect from frost; avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply during active growth; 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.
- Surface sterilize.
- Sow on medium.
- Maintain high humidity.
- Wait for germination.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (20–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or orchid-specific seed-starting medium.
Hormone
Not applicable for seeds; division may benefit from rooting hormone.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate; division roots in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sterilized containers, sphagnum moss, humidity dome, grow lights.
Quick Tips
Maintain sterile conditions; provide consistent humidity; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut spent flower spikes at the base. Remove dead pseudobulbs carefully to avoid damaging healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Focus on removing dead or damaged pseudobulbs and spent flower spikes.
Tools
Sterilized sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead material; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, after flowering and before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot, ensuring it is not excessively large.
Method
Remove old medium, trim dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix, and ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down. Necessary to refresh nutrients and improve drainage.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh medium; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal risk. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during dormancy (fall/winter), increasing frequency in spring/summer as growth resumes. Allow soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, leading to root damage and reduced vigor if exposed to prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and reduce watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Causes dehydration, leaf scorch, and premature flowering if exposed to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid dormant period.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicNeotinea lactea is toxic to cats, with ingestion causing gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity. The plant's alkaloids can be particularly harmful to feline physiology, leading to serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicNeotinea lactea is toxic to dogs, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic effects due to the plant's alkaloid content. The toxins can cause significant discomfort and health issues in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicNeotinea lactea is considered toxic to humans due to the presence of various alkaloids and other secondary metabolites that can cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds can disrupt normal cellular functions and lead to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Neotinea lactea easy to grow?
A: No, it is considered challenging and is best suited for expert orchid growers.
Q: Does this orchid attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and butterflies with its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Neotinea lactea toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled sunli |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
