Epipactis helleborine
broad-leaved helleborine
A rhizomatous, terrestrial orchid with relatively broad, oval, prominently veined leaves. The flowers, produced in spikes up to 80cm tall, have a variable combination of pink and green shades and appear in mid- to late summer
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Pink | Green | ||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Epipactis are rhizomatous, terrestrial orchids, bearing leaves spirally or in two ranks on the stem, without a basal rosette. The flowers have incurved upper petals, forming a helmet and the lower lip is curved into a cup shape
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- NW Africa Europe to China
How to grow
Cultivation
Best in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained, alkaline to slightly acid soil in full or partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring, ensuring each piece of rhizome has at least one growing point
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
No pruining required
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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