Short spurred fragrant orchid
Gymnadenia odoratissima · Orchidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant short spurred 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
- June to August
- Adult height
- 20 to 40 cm
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- Mountains of central and southern Europe
- Fragrance
- Very pleasant floral scent
Care
Exposure
Choose a location in full sun to partial shade to encourage generous flowering. This alpine orchid appreciates well-ventilated and well-drained spots. Avoid areas that are too hot and dry during the Mediterranean summer.
Soil and planting
Plant it in well-drained, light soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Enrich the soil with potting compost and coarse sand to prevent waterlogging. These mountain orchids thrive in poor soil, without excess organic matter.
Watering
Water moderately during the growth period (spring-summer) keeping the soil lightly moist without waterlogging. Reduce watering in autumn and winter during the dormant period. In dry climates, a light watering in spring is usually sufficient.
Fertilizing
Apply very diluted fertilizer in spring if the soil is poor. These alpine orchids don't need intensive fertilization; one to two applications per season is enough. Prefer a balanced fertilizer or one slightly rich in potassium.
Pruning and maintenance
No pruning is necessary. Leave faded flowers in place until they fall naturally. Simply remove dead or damaged parts to maintain the health of the clump.
Pests and diseases
Generally very resistant outdoors. Watch for slugs in spring as they can damage young leaves. Good drainage prevents root rot. Little susceptible to diseases if growing conditions are respected.
Did you know?
The fragrant orchid owes its scientific name 'odoratissima' to its exceptional and sweet fragrance, particularly intense in late afternoon. This alpine orchid was once very common in high-altitude meadows of the Alps and Pyrenees, where it attracts pollinating butterflies. In central Europe, it remains a valuable indicator of well-preserved mountain ecosystems.
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.