Water
Allow the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during the dormant period. Overwatering is a common cause of root rot.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which is crucial for this orchid's health.
Also known as Buck Orchid · Goat Orchid · Orchis Bouc
Lizard Orchid (Himantoglossum hircinum) is a terrestrial orchid with a distinctive fetid scent, native to Europe and North Africa. It is rarely cultivated.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow substrate to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging.
Chalky, well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers mild temperatures, with cooler conditions during dormancy. Protect from extreme heat and frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a diluted orchid feed. Reduce or stop during dormancy.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during the dormant period. Overwatering is a common cause of root rot.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which is crucial for this orchid's health.
Pruning is generally not required for Himantoglossum hircinum. Remove any dead or dried foliage at the end of the growing season to maintain tidiness and prevent potential disease spread.
Propagation is primarily achieved through division of tubers during repotting. Seed propagation is challenging and slow, requiring specific symbiotic fungal associations, and is best left to experienced growers.
Repot every 2-3 years when the plant is dormant, typically in late summer or early autumn. Use a well-draining orchid mix. Handle the tubers gently to avoid damage, ensuring they are planted at the correct depth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Lizard Orchid (Himantoglossum hircinum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Himantoglossum |
| Species | Himantoglossum hircinum |
Similar in genus Himantoglossum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
