About
Dactylorhiza majalis, the broad-leaved marsh orchid, is a robust, deciduous native orchid producing broad, often spotted leaves and dense spikes of reddish-purple flowers in late spring and early summer. A rewarding orchid for a moist, fertile grassland or pond margin.
About the genus
Dactylorhiza, the marsh orchids and spotted orchids, are deciduous tuberous perennials with lance-shaped leaves, often spotted or blotched with purple, and dense terminal spikes of purple, pink or white flowers in late spring and early summer. Native to Europe, Asia and North Africa, they are among the most rewarding of all hardy terrestrial orchids for naturalising in moist grassland.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, containers, naturalising in grass.
Care notes
CultivationPlant at appropriate depth in well-drained soil.
PruningAllow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
PropagationDivide offsets or bulbils when dormant.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.