PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, well-illuminated meadow habitats and avoids intense midday summer sun
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; prefers cool to temperate growing conditions with moderate daytime warmth
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of linear to lanceolate, glossy green leaves, up to 20 cm long
- Flower: Dense terminal spike of pink to purple blooms, each with a labellum shaped like a butterfly wing
- Stem: Erect, smooth green stem with small bracts subtending each flower
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; water when top 2 cm of soil is dry
Fertilization
Diluted balanced orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use low-strength liquid fertilizer to avoid root burn; discontinue feeding in winter dormancy
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost soil alkalinity and calcium levels, supporting healthy root developmentPruning
- Remove spent flower spikes at the base after blooming to redirect energy to root and foliage growth
- Trim yellowing basal leaves at the base to maintain plant health and improve airflow
- Thin overcrowded clumps in autumn to reduce competition for nutrients and light
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: In Mediterranean folklore, it symbolizes delicate beauty and summer meadow joy
Usage: Ornamental wildflower for meadow gardens, cut flower arrangements
