Overview
Gymnadenia nigra is a bushy bulbs in the genus Gymnadenia, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Gymnadenia nigra grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include wildflower meadow.
About
Gymnadenia nigra, also known as the black vanilla orchid, is a species of orchid and the provincial flower of Jämtland, a historical province of Sweden. It is a perennial species found in the major mountain ranges of Europe, including the Pyrenees and the Alps, into the Balkans and central Scandinavia, though its population has declined in the past decades due to over-harvesting.
About the genus
Gymnadenia is a genus of flowering plants in the orchid family (Orchidaceae) containing 22 terrestrial species. The former genus Nigritella is now included in Gymnadenia.
Wikipedia contributors, "Gymnadenia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Gymnadenia
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Gymnadenia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Gymnadenia nigra size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Wildflower meadow
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Gymnadenia nigra
- Propagation
- Division in early spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Gymnadenia nigra?
Gymnadenia nigra prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Gymnadenia nigra need?
Gymnadenia nigra is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Gymnadenia nigra hardy in the UK?
Gymnadenia nigra 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 Gymnadenia nigra?
Division in early spring.