Dactylorhiza elata (Robust Marsh Orchid)

Dactylorhiza elata (Robust Marsh Orchid) is a tuberous terrestrial orchid boasting flamboyant spikes, 8 in. long (20 cm), crowded with reddish-purple flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm). Blooming from late spring to early summer, the blossoms are borne atop stems bearing narrowly oblong leaves, 6-10 in. long (15-25 cm), spotted with burgundy and arranged spirally along the stems. Native to the western Mediterranean region, Robust Marsh Orchid grows naturally in humid and wet grasslands of tall grasses and rushes with very wet calcareous soils or soils flushed by calcareous waters. This species does not reproduce until its third year. Easy to grow, it is ideal for a rock or woodland garden, in a wildflower meadow and looks superb when planted among grasses or in informal borders.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 24-36 in. tall (60-90 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm).
• Performs best in part shade in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soils.
• A charming addition to beds and borders, rock gardens, cottage gardens or prairies and meadows.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Deadhead flowers as they fade if required.
• Propagate by division in early spring.
• Native to the western Mediterranean region including France, Sardinia, Spain, Portugal, Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia.