Dactylorhiza maculata

RHS Plant Profile
heath spotted orchid
heath spotted orchid RHS

Other common names

Adam-and-Eve, tegeirian brych

Synonyms

Orchis maculata var. leucantha
Orchis maculata

Bulbs Herbaceous Perennial

A terrestrial orchid with lance-shaped, mid-green leaves which may have brown or purple spots. The flowers, in spikes 5-10cm long, from mid-spring to late summer, may be white, pink, pale purple or purplish red, with darker spots and streaks

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Orchidaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Dactylorhiza are deciduous tuberous perennials with lance-shaped leaves sometimes spotted with purple, and dense terminal racemes of purple, pink or white flowers
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Europe, N Africa, Asia

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich, leafy soil in partial shade

Propagation

By division in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Rock garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required, tidy if necessary

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free