Dactylorhiza (Marsh Orchids)
Dactylorhiza (Marsh Orchids) are deciduous terrestrial orchids boasting lance-shaped leaves, sometimes spotted with burgundy, and showy terminal spikes crowded with purple, pink or white flowers in spring and summer. Because of their spectacular colorful inflorescences and their relative ease of cultivation, Marsh Orchids are the most widely grown European orchids. Marsh Orchids are very cold-hardy and do not require any special protection in winter. They can be grown outside in zones 5 through 8, depending on species.
Dactylorhiza (Marsh Orchids) are deciduous terrestrial orchids boasting lance-shaped leaves, sometimes spotted with burgundy, and showy terminal spikes crowded with purple, pink or white flowers in spring and summer. The genus includes 75 species and numerous named botanical varieties as well as natural hybrids. Marsh Orchids are distributed mostly in boreal, temperate zones, more rarely in Mediterranean areas: Europe, North Africa, Middle East, Asia and North America (Aleutian Islands).
Guide Information
| Hardiness | 5 – 8 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Orchids, Perennials |
| Plant Family | Dactylorhiza – Marsh Orchids |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Landscaping Ideas | Beds and Borders |
| Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |