Green-flowered orchid
dactylorhiza viridis
Also known as: ["Green-flowered marsh orchid","Green marsh orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species with greenish-yellow flowers, native to wetlands and marshy areas.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Dactylorhiza |
| Botanical Name: | Dactylorhiza viridis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container with dappled light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining orchid mix (e.g., bark, perlite, sphagnum moss); avoid heavy garden soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: high
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves and spent flower spikes.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight, especially in summer; adjust light exposure gradually if moving indoors/outdoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants slowly to new light conditions; protect from intense midday sun; provide shade during peak summer hours; monitor for signs of sunburn or etiolation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Use sheer curtains to filter direct light; rotate the pot weekly for even growth; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage root growth; ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
moist, well-drained, peat-based mix
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; monitor moisture levels to prevent waterlogging.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler nights (10–15°F lower than days); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Use a thermometer to monitor microclimates; group plants to create a humid microclimate; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil to avoid root burn; reduce frequency during dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is common but challenging; division of mature clumps is more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with at least one growth bud.
- Sterilize tools.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water lightly and maintain humidity.
Best Time: Divide clumps in early spring before new growth begins; sow seeds in late summer or early fall to mimic natural conditions.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (60–70°F or 15–21°C); indirect light.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or a mix of peat and perlite; maintain high humidity for seed germination.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; for seeds, use a specialized orchid germination medium.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: 1–3 years for germination and several years to flowering.
Tools Needed
Sterilized knife or shears, pots, propagation medium, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Divide only when clumps are overcrowded; use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base after flowering; trim leaves back to the base if they die.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune dead or damaged parts; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just as new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in a fresh, well-draining orchid mix; ensure the crown is at the soil surface.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; best when the plant is not actively flowering.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; position plant at the correct depth; 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, avoiding foliage; ensure water penetrates the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to mimic dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate sphagnum moss for moisture retention; use orchid-specific fertilizers to maintain fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in leaves; stunted growth; bud drop or failure to flower; wilting despite adequate water.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause root damage if frozen; can lead to fungal infections in overly moist conditions.
Solution: Insulate pots with mulch or bubble wrap; move to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold weather; use a heat mat if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may trigger premature dormancy; reduces flowering potential.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water more frequently but ensure drainage; avoid fertilizing in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid fall/winter feeding; flush soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest the roots or rhizomes of Dactylorhiza viridis. The toxic compounds are not highly potent but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Dactylorhiza viridis roots and rhizomes can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's irritant compounds may cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDactylorhiza viridis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The roots and rhizomes are the primary toxic parts, containing irritant substances that affect the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dactylorhiza viridis rare?
A: Yes, it is considered rare in many regions due to habitat loss and specialized growing conditions.
Q: Does this orchid require special care?
A: Yes, it requires specific conditions including wet, acidic soil and partial shade, making it challenging for beginners.
Q: Does it attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
