Common spotted orchid
dactylorhiza fuchsii
Also known as: ["Spotted orchid","Dactylorhiza maculata"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to Europe, known for its distinctive spotted leaves and spikes of pinkish-purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Dactylorhiza |
| Botanical Name: | Dactylorhiza fuchsii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter (e.g., leaf mold or peat).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in late fall.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct morning sun or bright indirect light); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide dappled light in hot climates; protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense midday sun; adjust shade cloth if growing outdoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging to prevent rot; adjust frequency based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture without saturation; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); prefers cooler nights during dormancy.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with diluted orchid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize after watering to avoid salt buildup; stop in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation or division of rhizomes (for mature clumps).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Division: Dig up clump, separate rhizomes, replant at correct depth.
- Seeds: Sow on surface, keep moist, provide stratification if needed.
Best Time: Late summer to early fall for division; seeds can be sown in late winter or early spring.
Environment
High humidity (60–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Seed: sterile seed-starting mix; division: well-draining orchid mix or loam-based potting soil.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; may aid seed germination.
Timeline
Seeds: 1–2 years to germinate; division: immediate establishment if conditions are ideal.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, sterilized knife, pots, sterile mix.
Quick Tips
Divide only mature plants; use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim dead leaves and stems at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Sharp, sterilized scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late fall or early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant, trim dead roots, replant in fresh, well-draining mix, ensure proper spacing.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; best when the plant is dormant.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; handle roots gently; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to reduce fungal risk; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring–summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in dormant periods (fall–winter).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or dormancy issues; frost can kill tender parts.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold stagnation.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity and water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted orchid fertilizer (¼ strength) every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDactylorhiza fuchsii is not toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects on felines after ingestion of this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDactylorhiza fuchsii is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion of this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDactylorhiza fuchsii, commonly known as the common spotted orchid, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Dactylorhiza fuchsii?
A: Propagation is typically done via seed, though it requires specific mycorrhizal fungi for germination.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this orchid?
A: It thrives in partial shade, moist but well-drained soil, and cooler temperatures.
Q: Does this plant require special care indoors?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant and may struggle indoors without mimicking its natural habitat.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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