PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; prefers bright indirect light in hot Mediterranean summers to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging which can cause tuber rot
Temperature
Thrives in cool to temperate temperatures; tolerates light frost down to 5°C during dormancy
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of 3–5 oblong, glossy green leaves up to 20 cm long
- Flower: Dense spike of 10–50 pink to purple blooms with a lip shaped like a naked human figure
- Stem: Slender, smooth green stem bearing a terminal flower spike
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth period
Fertilization
Diluted balanced orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use low-concentration fertilizer to avoid burning delicate roots
Crushed eggshell topdressing：Sprinkle a thin layer of dried, crushed eggshells on soil surface to boost calcium levels; avoid direct contact with tubersPruning
- Remove spent flower spikes after blooming to redirect energy to tuber development
- Trim yellowing basal leaves to maintain plant appearance and reduce fungal risk
- Divide overcrowded tubers in autumn after dormancy to promote healthy growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: No known toxic effects on cats per ASPCA
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Associated with fertility and whimsy in Mediterranean folklore
Usage: Ornamental garden plant, cut flower for floral arrangements
