About
Ophrys scolopax, the woodcock orchid, is a tuberous terrestrial orchid producing a rosette of leaves and spikes of distinctive flowers with pink to purple petals and an elongated, velvety, woodcock-mimicking lip in spring. A beautiful and fascinating orchid for a sunny, well-drained, alkaline meadow or rock garden.
About the genus
Ophrys are tuberous terrestrial orchids with rosettes of leaves and upright spikes of two to twelve flowers, the lower lip often beautifully patterned to resemble a foraging bee, wasp or fly. Native to grassland and scrub habitats in Europe and the Mediterranean.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, containers, naturalising.
Care notes
CultivationPlant at appropriate depth in well-drained soil.
PruningAllow foliage to die back naturally.
PropagationDivide offsets when dormant.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.