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Ophrys sphegodes Early spider orchid (1 Page of 5) The Ophrys sphegodes plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Orchidaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Early spider orchid. Some home gardeners know the variety as O. aranifera. Huds. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Ophrys sphegodes Common Name: Early spider orchid Family: Orchidaceae Author: Mill. Known Hazards: None known Mature Height: 0.45 Mature Width: Habitat: Grassy slopes, banks and field borders on chalk or limestone[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 prefer a shady position[188].
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].
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]. Plants are rather sparingly visited by bees, setting seed only if visited[17].
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 sphegodes gardening information click on one of the blue links below 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

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