Dactylorhiza praetermissa

RHS Plant Profile
southern marsh orchid

Other common names

tegeirian-y-gors deheuol

Synonyms

Dactylorhiza majalis subsp. praetermissa

Bulbs

A hardy, native orchid producing a rosette of mid-green, rarely spotted, narrowly oblong leaves and, in early summer, strong, upright, leafy stems topped with dense spikes of small, purple flowers with fine, dark speckles

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

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 Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Poorly–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–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
Clump forming
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
W Europe

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist, slightly acid to alkaline soil. Will naturalise in grass

Propagation

Propagate by division in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

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

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free