Four-spotted Orchid
orchis quadripunctata
Also known as: ["Four-spotted Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to parts of Europe, characterized by its small, spotted flowers arranged in a dense spike.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Orchis |
| Botanical Name: | Orchis quadripunctata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed with good air circulation or as an indoor plant in a bright, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry climates or heated indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite or sphagnum moss for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; inspect monthly for dead or damaged parts.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing non-productive parts without over-pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to dappled light in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; protect from direct sun; place in east-facing windows for optimal indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade with dappled light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid south-facing windows in peak sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in dormancy
Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting the crown to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich orchid mix
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use well-aerated mix; avoid heavy potting soils; ensure pots have drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) at night promote blooming.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent night/day cycles; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid-specific fertilizer, none during dormancy
Flush soil with plain water monthly to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs or backbulbs; occasionally through keikis (plantlets on flower spikes).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide pseudobulbs with at least 3 growths.
- Pot in fresh medium.
- Water lightly until established.
Best Time: After flowering or during active growth in spring or early summer.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C); indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may help for keikis.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; keikis: 6–12 months to root and grow.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, sterile pot, orchid mix, humidity dome (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure divisions have healthy roots; maintain humidity; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim leaves just above the node or base.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes to redirect energy to growth; trim dead or yellowing leaves.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut cleanly; remove debris; inspect for pests.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before new growth begins.
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 medium breaks down; essential for healthy root growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh medium; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (too hot); stunted growth (too cold); bud drop (fluctuating temps).
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; reduced blooming; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOrchis quadripunctata is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known toxic compounds harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOrchis quadripunctata is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOrchis quadripunctata is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orchis quadripunctata rare?
A: Yes, it is considered rare in many regions and is often sought after by orchid collectors.
Q: Does this orchid attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers are known to attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to determine toxicity to pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade with dappled lig |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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