Snakemouth Orchid
pogonia ophioglossoides
Also known as: ["Purple Fringeless Orchid","Adder's Mouth Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid native to North America, known for its unique fringed flowers and tuberous roots.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Pogonia |
| Botanical Name: | Pogonia ophioglossoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded, moist meadow
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Humus-rich, loamy soil with good organic content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade; dappled light 4–6 hours/day; avoid direct sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to new light conditions; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ideal for shaded woodland settings.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Use sheer curtains for indoor light; place under tree canopies outdoors; rotate for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Maintain consistent moisture without saturation; water less in dormancy.
Soil
moist, acidic, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); prefers cooler nights in summer.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; use shade cloth in summer; insulate pots in winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted balanced fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop in fall to encourage dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; occasionally by seed (slow and challenging).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Carefully dig up rhizomes.
- Divide into sections with at least one growth bud.
- Replant immediately.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
High humidity, partial shade, and consistent moisture.
Medium
Humus-rich, well-draining soil mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Rhizomes may establish in 1–2 months; flowering may take 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, clean knife, gloves.
Quick Tips
Divide only when necessary; ensure divisions have healthy roots; water well after replanting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base; trim spent flower stalks.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain vigor.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead growth; avoid cutting healthy stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth emerges.
Pot Size
One size up; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift the plant; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot only when overcrowded or every 2–3 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; allow excess to drain freely; avoid wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or leaf mold for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent soil moisture.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or curl; growth may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact; cease in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring–summer); avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPogonia ophioglossoides is not considered toxic to cats. No toxic effects have been reported in felines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPogonia ophioglossoides is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds or adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPogonia ophioglossoides, commonly known as the purple fringeless orchid, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no documented cases of toxicity associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pogonia ophioglossoides rare?
A: Yes, it is considered rare in many regions due to habitat loss and specialized growing conditions.
Q: Does this plant require special care?
A: Yes, it requires specific soil conditions, humidity, and light levels, making it challenging for beginners.
Q: Does it attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies, contributing to pollination.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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