Also known as Broad-Leaf Marsh Orchid · Broad-Leaf Marsh-Orchid · Broad-Leaved Marsh Orchid
Dactylorhiza majalis, the Western Marsh-Orchid, is a terrestrial orchid native to Europe, favoring damp meadows and fens. It features spikes of purple-pink flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial shade to full sun
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light or morning sun. Avoid intense afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves.
Consistent moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season; reduce significantly when dormant.
Loam, Sand, Clay, Peat, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures. Protect from extreme heat and frost. Dormancy in winter is beneficial.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer during the active growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water generously during the growing season, especially in spring and early summer when it actively grows and flowers. Maintain consistently moist soil, mimicking its natural marshy habitat.
Reduce watering significantly after flowering as the plant enters dormancy.
Pruning is generally not required for Dactylorhiza majalis. Remove any dead or yellowing foliage at the end of the growing season or before winter to maintain plant health and prevent disease.
This also tidies the appearance.
Propagation is primarily done through division of tubers in early spring before new growth emerges. Carefully separate the dormant tubers, ensuring each piece has at least one growth bud.
Replant immediately into suitable, moist substrate.
Repot Dactylorhiza majalis every 2-3 years, or when the pot becomes crowded, preferably in early spring before growth starts. Use a well-draining, humus-rich potting mix.
Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Western Marsh-Orchid (Dactylorhiza majalis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Dactylorhiza |
| Species | Dactylorhiza majalis |
Similar in genus Dactylorhiza
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
