Orchis italica aka Naked Man Orchid

Naked Man Orchid requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Naked Man Orchid should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Naked Man Orchid loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Naked Man Orchid requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Naked Man Orchid will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

During the cold period, it is common for Naked Man Orchid to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

The Naked Man Orchid is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.

The Naked Man Orchid should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Naked Man Orchid’s native range is Europe and Northwest Africa.