Monkey orchid (Orchis simia)
Care, watering, light and tips for Monkey orchid on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Orchidaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 15–30 °C
About Monkey orchid
Orchis simia, commonly known as the Monkey Orchid due to the peculiar shape of its flowers resembling small primates, is a fascinating and delicate terrestrial orchid. Its dense, conical inflorescences, adorned with pink to purple flowers and a lobed, spotted labellum, are a visual spectacle in spring. It is ideal for specialized rock gardens or native orchid collections, provided the right conditions are met.
Native range
Europe, Northwest Africa, and Southwest Asia
Care tips
It requires full sun to light partial shade exposure and well-drained, calcareous soil with low nutrient content. Watering should be moderate during the active growing period, drastically reduced in summer and autumn to allow for its dormancy period. Avoid frequent transplanting, as these orchids are sensitive to root disturbance and their associated mycorrhiza, which can lead to their decline.
How to save a dying Monkey orchid
- Warning signs
- Soft/yellowing leaves, wrinkled pseudobulbs, no flowering, rotten or dry roots.
- First aid
- Inspect roots (prune rot), repot with specific well-draining substrate, adjust watering.
- What kills it
- Over or under-watering, unsuitable substrate holding too much moisture or drying too fast.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely destroyed. Recovery can be slow but possible.