Contents
Description
Ophrys Tenthredinifera is a fascinating orchid species that is native to Mediterranean regions of Europe and North Africa. It is a terrestrial plant that grows up to 30 cm in height and blooms in spring. What makes this orchid unique is its wasp-like appearance, which serves as a mimicry strategy to attract male wasps for pollination.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Ophrys |
Appearance
Ophrys Tenthredinifera has a unique appearance that resembles a female wasp. It has a brownish-red or greenish-yellow body with three petal-like sepals and three smaller petals. The sepals are fused, forming a helmet-like structure that covers the reproductive organs. The lip of the flower is shaped like a female wasp, complete with a hairy body and antennae. This mimicry strategy is highly effective in attracting male wasps for pollination.
Care Guide
To care for Ophrys Tenthredinifera, you should provide it with well-draining soil and moderate sunlight. It prefers moist soil, so water it regularly but avoid overwatering. Fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. This orchid is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ophrys Tenthredinifera is susceptible to fungal diseases, such as root rot and crown rot. These diseases can be prevented by providing well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering. This orchid is also prone to spider mites and mealybugs, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Ophrys Tenthredinifera is found in Mediterranean regions of Europe and North Africa, where it grows in open grasslands, scrublands, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and moderate sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: How do you propagate Ophrys Tenthredinifera?
A: This orchid can be propagated by division of the rhizomes during the dormant season.
Q: Can Ophrys Tenthredinifera be grown indoors?
A: It is not recommended to grow this orchid indoors, as it requires moderate sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should you fertilize Ophrys Tenthredinifera?
A: Fertilize this orchid once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the significance of Ophrys Tenthredinifera’s wasp-like appearance?
A: The mimicry strategy of Ophrys Tenthredinifera’s wasp-like appearance is highly effective in attracting male wasps for pollination.
Related Plants
- Ophrys apifera
- Ophrys fusca
- Ophrys scolopax
- Ophrys sphegodes
References
- “Ophrys tenthredinifera”. World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- https://www.orchidweb.com/orchids/orchidaceae/ophrys-tenthredinifera
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12734/ophrys-tenthredinifera/details
