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Ophrys holoserica
Late spider orchid
(1 Page of 5)

 
The Ophrys holoserica plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Orchidaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Late spider orchid. Some home gardeners know the variety as O. arachnites. (L.)Reichard. O. fuciflora. (Crantz.)Moench.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 
Latin Name:  Ophrys holoserica
Common Name:  Late spider orchid
Family:  Orchidaceae
Author:  (Burm.f.)Greuter.
 
Known Hazards:  None known
 
Mature Height:  0.55   Mature Width:  
 
Habitat:  Very rare and local on chalk downs and field borders in S. E. England[17].



Cultivation Notes:  Plants can be grown in a lawn, but the lawn must not be cut until the plants have set seed[200]. Plants are best grown in a shady position[188]. Grows well in a sunny dry border or on a scree[230]. Orchids are, in general, shallow-rooting plants of well-drained low-fertility soils. Their symbiotic relationship with a fungus in the soil allows them to obtain sufficient nutrients and be able to compete successfully with other plants. They are very sensitive to the addition of fertilizers or fungicides since these can harm the symbiotic fungus and thus kill the orchid[230]. This symbiotic relationship makes them very difficult to cultivate, though they will sometimes appear uninvited in a garden and will then thrive. Transplanting can damage the relationship and plants might also thrive for a few years and then disappear, suggesting that they might be short-lived perennials[230]. A very rare species in Britain, where it is on the verge of extinction, it is rather more common in southern Europe[230]. The flowers resemble a female insect and also emit a scent similar to female pheremones, they are pollinated by a male insect of that species attempting to copulate with the flower[200]. Tubers should be planted out whilst they are dormant, this is probably best done in the autumn[200]. They should be planted at least 5cm below soil level[200].

For further Ophrys holoserica gardening information
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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
View their bibliography
Useful Edible Plants Future

 


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