Fragrant orchid
Gymnadenia conopsea · Orchidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant fragrant orchid: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- May to July
- Adult size
- 20 to 50 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, disappears in autumn
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- Europe, temperate and mountainous regions
- Natural habitat
- Damp meadows, limestone grasslands
Care
Light exposure
Install the gymnadenia in a sunny to partially shaded location to encourage beautiful flowering. It tolerates variable light conditions well, particularly in mountain environments where it grows naturally. Avoid overly shaded locations, which would reduce flower production.
Soil and growing medium
Gymnadenia prefers well-draining soil that is preferably calcareous or neutral, and slightly moist during the growing period. It dislikes overly compacted or poorly aerated soil. Soil rich in organic matter (humus, lightened peat) facilitates its establishment.
Watering
Water moderately in spring and summer, keeping the soil fresh without stagnant water. Reduce watering considerably in autumn and winter when the plant goes dormant. During dry periods, regular but measured watering encourages generous flowering.
Fertilising
Apply a very diluted or slow-release fertiliser in spring when growth resumes. A single application is generally sufficient for the season. Choose a balanced, low-concentration fertiliser: terrestrial orchids tolerate excess poorly.
Pruning and maintenance
No pruning is necessary. Simply remove faded flowers if desired, and let the foliage disappear naturally in autumn. Clear plant debris in late winter to prevent the establishment of pathogens.
Diseases and pests
Gymnadenia is generally very healthy and rarely affected by pests. Excess moisture can promote rotting: ensure impeccable drainage. Watch for slugs during damp periods, particularly in spring.
Did you know?
The fragrant orchid owes its common name to its delicate flower spikes resembling a swarm of small pink or purple insects. Its flowers release a sweet fragrance that is particularly powerful at dusk, attracting nocturnal butterflies that ensure its pollination. It is one of the rare fragrant wild European orchids, a symbol of blooming alpine meadows.
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
- Spotted orchidDactylorhiza maculata
- Lesser twaybladeNeottia ovata
- Broad-leaved helleborineEpipactis helleborine
- Western Marsh-orchidDactylorhiza majalis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.