Platanthera chlorantha
Platanthera chlorantha · Orchidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant platanthera chlorantha: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to July
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- Europe, temperate Asia
- Natural habitat
- Damp meadows, open woodlands
Care
Light exposure
Position your platanthera in a semi-shaded to partially shaded area, ideally under tree or shrub cover. It tolerates light sun in cool, humid climates. Avoid direct, scorching afternoon exposure.
Soil and planting
Platanthera prefers rich, slightly acidic to neutral soil that is well-drained yet constantly moist. Enrich the soil with leaf mould or peat before planting. Space clumps 20 to 30 cm apart to promote air circulation.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing period, especially in dry spells. Water regularly in summer without creating waterlogging. Reduce watering in autumn and suspend it in winter when the plant goes dormant.
Fertilizing
A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring is more than enough. For terrestrial orchids, choose a nitrogen-poor fertilizer, diluted at low concentration. Avoid over-fertilizing, which could promote foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Maintenance and pruning
Remove spent flowers after flowering to prevent unwanted self-seeding. Clear dead foliage in autumn or early winter. Clean up plant debris around the base to reduce rot and disease risks.
Diseases and pests
In waterlogged conditions, platanthera may suffer from rhizome rot. Watch for slugs, which thrive in damp areas and can damage young shoots. Good air circulation and well-drained soil are your best prevention.
Did you know?
Green-flowered platanthera is an orchid pollinated by nocturnal butterflies, particularly hawk-moths. Its flowers release a delicate fragrance in the evening to attract these pollinators—a remarkable botanical adaptation. It ranks among Europe's oldest wild orchids mentioned in classical botanical literature.
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
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.