Bumblebee Orchid
ophrys bombyliflora
Also known as: ["Bumblebee Orchid","Bombyliflora Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to the Mediterranean region, known for its unique flower resembling a bumblebee.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Ophrys |
| Botanical Name: | Ophrys bombyliflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, raised beds, or containers with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid mix with bark, perlite, and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to new light conditions; provide shade during peak sun hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingchallenging
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use orchid-specific mix; ensure good drainage; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize after watering to avoid root damage; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is common but challenging; division of mature clumps is possible but rare in home cultivation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature seeds.
- Sow in sterile medium.
- Maintain high humidity.
- Or divide mature clumps carefully.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C); indirect light.
Medium
Specialized orchid mix or sphagnum moss with good drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for seed propagation; division may benefit from rooting hormone.
Timeline
Seeds can take 1–2 years to germinate; division may take several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sterile knife, propagation case, orchid mix, sphagnum moss.
Quick Tips
Maintain sterile conditions for seeds; divide only healthy clumps; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim leaves just above the node.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves and spent flower spikes.
Tools
Sterile scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove dead parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, after flowering, when the plant is entering active growth.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove old medium; trim dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down; necessary for healthy root growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; sterilize tools; handle roots gently; use fresh orchid mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; use orchid bark for aeration; maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause root damage; frost can be lethal.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; maintain consistent temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply monthly in growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphrys bombyliflora is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOphrys bombyliflora is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOphrys bombyliflora is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though it is not typically used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophrys bombyliflora toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What does the Bumblebee Orchid look like?
A: It has flowers that mimic the appearance of a bumblebee, with a fuzzy, bee-like structure.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Ophrys bombyliflora?
A: It is challenging to care for, requiring specific conditions to thrive.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| 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
