Spotted orchid
Dactylorhiza maculata · Orchidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant spotted orchid: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous (disappears in winter)
- Flowering
- May to July
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm tall
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Temperate and boreal Europe
- Soil type
- Moist to very moist, rich in organic matter
Care
Light
The spotted orchis prefers partial shade, sheltered from the hot afternoon sun. In cool mountain climates, it tolerates more direct light. Position it in a location protected from overly dry winds.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist, never allowing it to dry out completely. During the growing season (spring-summer), water regularly. After flowering, gradually reduce watering as the plant enters winter dormancy.
Soil
Choose soil rich in organic matter, slightly acidic to neutral, well-draining but always fresh. Adding compost or peat at planting improves moisture retention. Avoid chalky and overly compact soils.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer in spring when growth resumes. A second application before flowering can encourage better blooming. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would weaken the plant.
Pruning and cutting
No pruning is necessary. Simply leave spent flowers in place until they dry naturally, then cut the dry stems to ground level in autumn.
Diseases and pests
Relatively robust, this orchid can be affected by rhizome rot if there is excessive stagnant moisture. Improve soil aeration and limit watering if the base yellows. Aphids and whiteflies are rare but possible in protected cultivation.
Did you know?
The spotted orchis gets its name from the brown-reddish spots that adorn its lance-shaped leaves. In northern Europe, this wild orchid thrives in damp areas, marshes and peatlands, where it plays a crucial ecological role as a nectar source for pollinating insects and a biodiversity refuge.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese ground orchidBletilla striata
- Moth orchidPhalaenopsis amabilis
- Lesser twaybladeNeottia ovata
- Broad-leaved helleborineEpipactis helleborine
- Western Marsh-orchidDactylorhiza majalis
- Fragrant orchidGymnadenia conopsea
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.