Serapias lingua
Care, watering, light and tips for Serapias lingua on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Orchidaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 15–30 °C
About Serapias lingua
Serapias lingua, commonly known as the Tongue-orchid, is a small terrestrial orchid native to the Mediterranean region. It is characterized by its unique flower, resembling a tongue, with a long, hairy, reddish to purplish labellum, and sepals and petals forming a helmet-like structure. It is ideal for rock gardens, naturalistic gardens, or in pots, where its singular beauty can be appreciated up close.
Native range
Mediterranean region of Europe and North Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun to light partial shade exposure and a well-drained substrate, preferably calcareous and poor in nutrients. Watering should be moderate during flowering, drastically reducing it once the leaves begin to yellow to allow for summer dormancy. Avoid excessive moisture at the plant's crown and waterlogging, as these are the main causes of rot in this species.
How to save a dying Serapias lingua
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing, or blackening leaves at the base. Lack of flowering or premature flower drop. Soft or rotten roots.
- First aid
- Remove the plant from its pot. Examine roots, cut rotten ones with sterile scissors. Replace substrate with fresh, suitable mix (terrestrial orchid specific).
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter dormancy. Inadequate substrate retaining too much moisture. Lack of drainage.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and pseudobulb is firm. Act quickly at the first symptoms.