Spider orchid
Ophrys araneolafam. Orchidaceae
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Pl. 6C00 — Ophrys araneola
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IOverview
Overview
Ophrys araneola, known as the spider orchid, is a perennial plant native to France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and Yugoslavia. This species thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows up to 0.5 meters tall and is hardy in zones 6-9. The spider orchid is both edible and ornamental; its distinctive feature includes a flower resembling a spider, which helps attract pollinators. Its roots are the parts used for culinary purposes.
Quick answers
What is Spider orchid?
Ophrys araneola, known as the spider orchid, is a perennial plant native to France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and Yugoslavia. This species thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Ophrys araneola thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions from USDA zones 6-9 and grows as a perennial reaching heights of 0.5 meters. For propagation, division or seed sowing are effective methods. The edible parts include the root, making this plant both ornamental and useful for culinary purposes.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Spider orchid for the first time
6steps
Start with planting Spider orchid in a well-prepared soil mix and provide the right conditions for its growth.
- 1
What you'll need
A pot, quality potting mix suitable for orchids, and a few spider orchid plants or seeds.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining mix of perlite, peat moss, and bark. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants into their new pots gently, ensuring roots are not damaged.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a bright spot with indirect sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top layer of soil feels dry and provide partial shade during intense sun periods.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Ophrys araneola is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. Typically, it is prepared by digging up the plant and either eating the roots fresh or boiling them to soften them for easier consumption. Skip preparation methods involving drying or making tea with this part of the plant.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 6 native
Europe5 regions
native (5)FranceGermanyItalySpainSwitzerland
Broader regions
native:Yugoslavia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Orchidaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Orchidaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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