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BulbsHerbaceous Perennial

Dactylorhiza maculata

heath spotted orchid

A terrestrial orchid with lance-shaped, mid-green leaves which may have brown or purple spots. The flowers, in spikes 5-10cm long, from mid-spring to late summer, may be white, pink, pale purple or purplish red, with darker spots and streaks

Other common names
Adam-and-Eve
tegeirian brych
Synonyms
Orchis maculata var. leucantha
Orchis maculata
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Purple Pink Red White Brown Green Purple
Summer Purple Pink Red White Brown Green Purple
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

North–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Orchidaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Dactylorhiza are deciduous tuberous perennials with lance-shaped leaves sometimes spotted with purple, and dense terminal racemes of purple, pink or white flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe, N Africa, Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich, leafy soil in partial shade

Propagation

By division in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Rock garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required, tidy if necessary

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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