Ophrys apifera (Bee Orchid)


Botanical Information

FamilyOrchidaceae
GenusOphrys
Speciesapifera
CategoryBulbs, Perennials, Wildflowers & Weeds
OriginWestern and Central Europe.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone7
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone6b - 7a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH5 - H6
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-15 - (-20)
Temperature (°F)5 - (-4)
Height15 - 50 cm
GrowthSlow
Flowering PeriodApril, May, June, July

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionIt is illegal to remove orchids from the wild, they are a CITES protected group.
PropagationThe flowers self pollinate. This species may be considered monocarpic in parts of its natural range.
CultivationFull sun and partial-shade. Well-drained and moist soil.
HabitatGrassland and calcareous dunes.
Leaf DescriptionSmall rosettes of basal leaves that are ovate or oblong-lanceolate. The upper leaves and bracts are ovate-lanceolate and sheathing.
Flower DescriptionThe flowers are large sepals with a central rib. The petals are short and pubescent. Consists of 1 - 12 flowers.
Colour DescriptionThe leaves are green. The flowers sepals are white to pink in colour with a green rib while the petals are yellowish-green.

Photographs