ape orchid
Also known as: monkey orchid
A terrestrial orchid up to 30cm tall with 3-4 basal, oblong to oval leaves. Compact clusters of flowers opening from the top downwards are held on upright stems in late spring to early summer. Each flower comprises 3 sepals which form a greyish-white hood flecked with pink and below this, a flower lip with a monkey-like appearance: a narrow white 'body' with short, pinkish-purple hairs and curved, pink 'arms' and 'legs' with a short 'tail' between the legs
Scientific classification
- Species
- ape orchid (Orchis simia)
- Genus
- Orchis
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Information to be completed
- Toxicity
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Plant type
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- Deciduous
- Foliage
- Columnar upright
- Habit
- Spring · Summer
- Season of interest
- Full sun · Partial shade
- Sunlight
- Information to be completed
- Ideal temperature
ape orchid pictures
Distribution of ape orchid
Distribution map
Information to be completed
Information to be completed
Culture
Information to be completed
Toxicity
Information to be completed
Quick identification of ape orchid
Information to be completed
ape orchid care guide
- Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but well-drained; reduce in winter dormancy.
- Watering
- Full sun · Partial shade
- Sunlight
- Information to be completed
- Ideal temperature
Watering
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but well-drained; reduce in winter dormancy.
Fertilizing
FertilizingApply a balanced orchid fertilizer at half-strength monthly during growth.
Pruning
PruningNo pruning required
Propagation
PropagationPropagate by seed
Growing
GrowingGrow in a moist but well-drained, alkaline soil in full sun or partial shade
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Common pests and diseases
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Pests
May be susceptible to slugs and snails
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