PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade; requires bright, indirect light for indoor cultivation to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -5°C during dormancy; thrives in cool temperate conditions; avoid prolonged heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of 3–6 oblong, pale green leaves; stem leaves smaller, clasping
- Flower: Single or 2–3 flowers per spike; labellum resembles a furry female bee with brown, yellow, and blue markings
- Stem: Slender, upright green stem with fine, soft hairs
Care Guide
Watering
Keep substrate consistently moist; mist lightly to maintain ambient humidity
Fertilization
Diluted balanced orchid feed every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization during winter dormancy to prevent nutrient buildup
Eggshell powder top-dress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; lightly dust on soil surface to boost alkaline soil levels and add calciumPruning
- Remove spent flower spikes after blooming to redirect energy to root growth
- Trim yellowing basal leaves in autumn to maintain plant health
- Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years after dormancy to improve airflow
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes floral mimicry and evolutionary cleverness in botanical ecology
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; subject of wildflower conservation efforts
