Late Spider Orchid
Ophrys holosericafam. Orchidaceae
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Pl. 4EBC — Ophrys holoserica
Ophrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holosericaOphrys holoserica
IOverview
Overview
The Late Spider Orchid (Ophrys holoserica) is a perennial plant known for its ornamental value and edibility. Native to countries including Albania, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, and others in Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean, this orchid thrives in light conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade and can tolerate various soil types, from sandy to clay. It prefers moist to dry environments and is hardy in zones 5-9. The plant grows up to 0.6 meters tall and is notable for its distinctive, spider-like appearance. Its roots are edible, adding a unique feature to this already intriguing species.
Quick answers
What is Late Spider Orchid?
The Late Spider Orchid (Ophrys holoserica) is a perennial plant known for its ornamental value and edibility.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Late Spider Orchid thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to dry conditions, with soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions, specifically zones 5-9. This perennial grows up to 0.6 meters tall and can be propagated through its roots. Ensure the plant has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging, as it prefers moist but not overly wet soil.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Late Spider Orchid for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Late Spider Orchid to gain experience in orchid care.
- 1
What you'll need
A pot, well-draining soil mix, and the Late Spider Orchid plant.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand for good drainage. Ensure the pot has holes at the bottom.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the orchid carefully to avoid damaging its roots. Place it in the center of the pot.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil slightly moist and place the plant in a bright, indirect light location.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Provide partial shade to full sun depending on your climate.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers and yellow leaves to maintain plant health, but avoid disturbing the roots.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, using heavy soil that doesn't drain well, and placing in direct sunlight are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Late Spider Orchid's roots are edible and can be prepared in various ways. They are often eaten raw or cooked, adding a unique flavor to dishes. Skip the detailed preparation methods as they are not provided.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
24 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
24 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 24 native
Europe12 regions
native (12)AlbaniaAustriaBelgiumFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyNetherlandsRomaniaSwitzerlandUnited Kingdom
Asia2 regions
native (2)PalestineTurkey
Africa1 region
native (1)Libya
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., Kriti, Turkey-in-Europe, Yugoslavia, Lebanon-Syria
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
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 4ebc271b-6c22-42a0-b590-1621c97286a1
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