Overview
Dactylorhiza x transiens is a clump forming bulbs in the genus Dactylorhiza, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Dactylorhiza x transiens grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, rock garden, wildflower meadow and flower borders and beds.
About
Dactylorhiza x transiens is a clump-forming cultivar of the Dactylorhiza genus, which comprises tuberous perennials with deciduous, elongated lanceolate leaves that may be spotted with purple. This orchid produces dense terminal racemes of flowers in spring and thrives best in moist but well-drained loam soil. It is hardy to UK zone H5 and prefers partial shade with exposure ranging from sheltered to exposed, suitable for east, north, or west-facing aspects. Ideal for cottage gardens, rock gardens, wildflower meadows, and flower borders, it is best propagated by division in early spring.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Dactylorhiza
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Dactylorhiza x transiens size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbs, Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Wildflower meadow, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dactylorhiza x transiens
- Propagation
- Divide in early spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Dactylorhiza x transiens?
Dactylorhiza x transiens prefers partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Dactylorhiza x transiens need?
Dactylorhiza x transiens grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Dactylorhiza x transiens hardy in the UK?
Dactylorhiza x transiens has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Dactylorhiza x transiens?
Divide in early spring.
More in the Dactylorhiza genus
- Dactylorhiza majalisbroad-leaved marsh orchid
- Dactylorhiza praetermissa 'Copenhaven'
- Dactylorhiza Eskimo Nell gx
- Dactylorhiza purpurella x Larissa gx
- Dactylorhiza x grandis Blackthorn hybrid