Dactylorhiza fuchsii (Common Spotted Orchid)

Dactylorhiza fuchsii (Common Spotted Orchid) is a tuberous terrestrial orchid boasting showy spikes crowded with up to 20-70 purple, pink or white flowers. The petals are decorated with beautiful patterns of dark-red dots, dashes and loops. Blooming from late spring to early summer, the blossoms are borne atop erect, pale green stems, flushed purple towards the top. The lance-shaped green leaves are usually profusely marked with dark spots and blotches. Widespread and abundant throughout temperate Europe, as far east as Siberia, Common Spotted Orchid is tolerant of a wide range of conditions from the driest chalk grassland to marshes and from full sun to shade. It is ideal for a rock or woodland garden, in a wildflower meadow and looks superb when planted among wildflowers or in informal borders.

• Grows up to 8-24 in. tall (20-60 cm) and 6-8 in. wide (15-20 cm).
• Performs best in part shade in moist, humus-rich, acidic, well-drained soils. Will tolerate full sun if soil is kept moist.
• 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 Europe, with the range extending eastward into Siberia, Mongolia and Xinjiang.