Butterfly Orchid
Platanthera bifolia
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Pl. 6C52 — Platanthera bifolia
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IOverview
Overview
The Butterfly Orchid (Platanthera bifolia) is a perennial plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, thriving in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5. Found across a wide range including Albania, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, and more, it is known for its edible root, which can be consumed when young. This orchid grows up to 0.5 meters tall and is distinguished by its light, airy appearance and the distinctive shape of its flowers, resembling delicate butterflies in flight. Its native range includes both moist and drier habitats, making it adaptable within its habitat preferences.
Quick answers
What is Butterfly Orchid?
The Butterfly Orchid (Platanthera bifolia) is a perennial plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, thriving in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Butterfly Orchid (Platanthera bifolia) thrives in moist conditions and prefers light to medium soils that are well-draining but can tolerate heavier clay soils as well. It requires a pH between 7 and 7.5 for optimal growth. This perennial plant is hardy in zones 5-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. For cultivation, place the butterfly orchid in an environment with light to moderate shade, mimicking its natural habitat. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Skip any specific product recommendations and focus on these basic care needs.
Light
6/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Butterfly Orchid for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple planting of Butterfly Orchid to gain experience in orchid care.
- 1
What you'll need
A small Butterfly Orchid plant, well-draining potting mix, and a container with drainage holes.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant the Butterfly Orchid in early spring or late summer when it's not actively growing.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a container that is slightly larger than the root ball, filled with well-draining potting mix with added perlite for extra drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Carefully place the plant in the center of the container, ensuring roots are not damaged during handling.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place the container in a bright spot out of direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain plant health. Avoid harvesting roots as they are not commonly used.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Butterfly Orchid's root is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. It is typically prepared by digging up the plant and extracting the roots, which are then either eaten fresh or boiled to enhance their flavor and texture.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Europe21 regions
native (21)AustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIrelandItalyNetherlandsNorwayPolandRomaniaRussiaSpainSwedenUkraineUnited Kingdom
Asia2 regions
native (2)IranIraq
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Baltic States, Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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