Tongue-flowered orchid (Serapias lingua)

Tongue-flowered orchid

Also known as: Greater tongue orchid, Tongue serapias

The one-columned tongue-stalk is a perennial plant with one sedentary and two subterranean, long-stemmed tubers. The stem is 25 to 89 cm high and has four to eight narrow lanceolate leaves. The loose inflorescence consists of less than eight flowers. The sepals are gray purple, pointed and bent together.

Scientific classification

Species

Tongue-flowered orchid (Serapias lingua)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

10 cm to 30 cm

Plant Height

1.5 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Purple

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Tongue-flowered orchid

Distribution of Tongue-flowered orchid

Distribution Map

Tongue-flowered orchid is a terrestrial orchid primarily native to the Mediterranean region. It thrives in a variety of habitats in this warm temperate area. The species has also been introduced to parts of western Europe, where it naturalized in some temperate zones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Damp meadows, open fields

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Tongue-flowered orchid

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Tongue-flowered orchid thrives in humid conditions reminiscent of its Mediterranean origin. It prefers moderate moisture, requiring weekly watering to prevent waterlogging. Often grown indoors for easier care, tongue-flowered orchid's watering needs align with its active growth phases, essential for robust development.

Fertilize: To promote healthy growth and blooming in tongue-flowered orchid, fertilize every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer at half strength during active growth (spring to early fall). In winter, reduce to monthly feeding. Avoid contact with leaves and pseudobulbs to prevent burn, monitoring tongue-flowered orchid's response for adjustments.

Pruning: Tongue-flowered orchid features unique, tongue-shaped flowers and requires minimal pruning, ideally from early to late spring. Regular inspections for pests are essential; proper pruning promotes health and blooms. Always sterilize tools to prevent infection.

Propagation: The ornamental tongue-flowered orchid thrives through division by carefully separating pseudobulbs during transplantation, ensuring each section has at least one shoot for successful propagation. Maintain plant health with well-draining medium, tending to roots for robust growth and a smooth transition for new offsets.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Tongue-flowered orchid

Distribution of Tongue-flowered orchid

Care Guide for Tongue-flowered orchid

PEOPLE ALSO ASK