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Gymnadenia conopsea

fragrant orchid

A herbaceous terrestrial orchid with narrowly lance-shaped leaves and stems to 50cm bearing small lilac-purple flowers in a dense, cylindrical spike. Scented

Other common names
aromatic orchid
scented orchid
Synonyms
Orchis conopsea

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring
Summer Purple Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

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

Gymnadenia are herbaceous, terrestrial orchids with a leafy stem and palmately-lobed tubers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe, Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any moist but well-drained soil in sun or part shade

Propagation

Propagate by division in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildflower meadow
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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