Overview

Epipactis atrorubens is a orchid in the genus Epipactis, part of the Orchid family. Epipactis atrorubens grows best in partial shade and full sun, and tolerates well-drained and calcareous soil soils and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is native to Belgium, Flemish Region, Walloon Region and Flanders.

About

Epipactis atrorubens is an orchid in the genus Epipactis, commonly called the dark red helleborine. It prefers well-drained, calcareous (alkaline) soils and suits south-facing positions with dry to moderate moisture. Flowering takes place in July–August. The species tolerates both sheltered and exposed sites and carries a UK hardiness rating of H5.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Epipactis atrorubens

About the genus

Epipactis, or helleborine, is a genus of terrestrial orchids consisting of approximately 70 species. This genus is abbreviated as Epcts in horticultural trade.

Wikipedia contributors, "Epipactis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Epipactis

In the garden

Epipactis atrorubens is an orchid native to parts of Belgium, including the Flemish and Walloon regions. As a member of the Epipactis genus it occupies calcareous habitats and adapts to a range of exposures from sheltered to open locations. In a British garden it will be most at home where lime-rich soil and good drainage prevail. Place plants where they receive full sun or partial shade on a south-facing aspect, and avoid heavy, waterlogged ground. Aim for an alkaline, well-drained medium with only dry to moderate soil moisture; excessive damp through winter or standing water will not suit it. The listed hardiness H5 translates as hardy, so established plants tolerate normal UK winters without the protection needed for tender species. Use Epipactis atrorubens on south-facing banks, stony or gravelly patches with a calcareous subsoil, and beside limestone or chalk outcrops where drainage is free. It also fits narrow, lime-rich ledges or slopes where competition from vigorous plants is limited. Expect its summer display in July–August, which helps plan planting groups and seasonal interest around mid-summer.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Epipactis

Sunlight

partial shade, full sun

Soil type

well-drained, calcareous soil

Soil pH

alkaline

Soil moisture

dry to moderate

Aspect

south-facing

Exposure

sheltered to exposed

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Epipactis atrorubens size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Orchid

Native to

Belgium, Flemish Region, Walloon Region, Flanders

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Epipactis atrorubens

Cultivation

Prefers calcareous soils, avoid waterlogged conditions, often found in dry grasslands and open woodlands.

Propagation

seed, division

Frequently asked questions