Tall Marsh-orchid
dactylorhiza elata
Also known as: ["Tall Dactylorhiza","Southern Marsh-orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to Europe, known for its tall spikes of pinkish-purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Dactylorhiza |
| Botanical Name: | Dactylorhiza elata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: moist meadows, woodland edges, or shaded garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite and peat moss for good aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; remove dead leaves as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on cleanup rather than shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; partial shade during peak midday sun to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; provide shade netting or dappled light outdoors; rotate indoor plants for even exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with dappled light
Avoid direct midday sun; use sheer curtains indoors; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in dormancy
Avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; water less in winter.
Soil
moist, well-drained, slightly acidic peat-based mix
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure mix is airy; avoid heavy garden soil; maintain slight dryness between waterings.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (10–20°C); tolerates brief dips to 5°C but prefers stable conditions above 15°C during active growth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain stable conditions during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil; flush periodically to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes after flowering or from seed (challenging for home growers).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizome into sections with at least one growth bud.
- Pot in fresh mix.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Late summer or early autumn after flowering ceases.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (18–22°C), and indirect light for seedlings.
Medium
Orchid mix or coarse perlite with peat moss for division; sterile seed medium for seeds.
Hormone
Not required for division; rooting hormone may aid seedlings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: 1–2 years to germinate, 3–5 years to flowering.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, sterile potting mix, small pots.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has a growth point; keep divisions moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim dead leaves to the rhizome level.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and dead foliage to redirect energy to rhizome growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of debris; avoid damaging new growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early autumn after flowering.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 cm in diameter; ensure it’s not excessively large.
Method
Gently remove old mix; trim dead roots; replant in fresh orchid mix with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the pot becomes crowded; essential for healthy rhizome growth.
Checklist
Prepare new mix; inspect roots; position rhizome correctly; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturating the pot; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the soil surface feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in dormancy (autumn/winter).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity and water retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf necrosis in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, halts growth, and may cause root damage if prolonged below 5°C.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves wilt, flowers abort, and growth halts in sustained temperatures above 25°C without adequate humidity.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Dilute correctly; apply during growth; avoid winter; flush occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDactylorhiza elata is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDactylorhiza elata is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDactylorhiza elata 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: Is Dactylorhiza elata suitable for beginners?
A: No, it is challenging to grow and requires specific conditions.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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