Dactylorhiza

Description

Dactylorhiza is a genus of orchids that includes over fifty species of terrestrial orchids. These orchids are native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa and are known for their beautiful flowers that bloom in summer. The name Dactylorhiza is derived from the Greek words “dactylos,” meaning finger, and “rhiza,” meaning root, which refers to the finger-like tubers that these orchids produce.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Dactylorhiza orchids typically have tubers that are finger-like and grow in clumps. Their leaves are lance-shaped and grow from the base of the plant. The flowers of Dactylorhiza orchids are usually pink, purple, or white and have three petals and three sepals. The lip of the flower is usually highly patterned and has a distinctive spur. The flowers grow on tall spikes and bloom in summer.

Care Guide

Dactylorhiza orchids are relatively easy to care for, but they do require some attention to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for Dactylorhiza orchids:

• Water: Dactylorhiza orchids prefer moist soil, so water them regularly but do not let them sit in standing water.
• Fertilization: Fertilize Dactylorhiza orchids with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Dactylorhiza orchids prefer well-draining soil that is high in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Dactylorhiza orchids prefer bright, indirect sunlight.
• Hardiness Zones: Dactylorhiza orchids are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dactylorhiza orchids are relatively resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to the following:

• Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of Dactylorhiza orchids. Use slug and snail bait to control them.
• Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause the flowers to rot. Remove infected flowers and use a fungicide to control the disease.

Habitat

Dactylorhiza orchids are native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, marshes, and woodland edges. They prefer moist soil and bright, indirect sunlight.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Dactylorhiza orchid?
A: Water your Dactylorhiza orchid regularly but do not let it sit in standing water.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dactylorhiza orchids?
A: Dactylorhiza orchids are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Q: Do Dactylorhiza orchids prefer direct sunlight?
A: No, Dactylorhiza orchids prefer bright, indirect sunlight.

Q: What should I do if my Dactylorhiza orchid gets botrytis?
A: Remove infected flowers and use a fungicide to control the disease.

Related Plants

• Orchis
• Platanthera
• Neottia
• Cypripedium

References

• “Dactylorhiza.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 11 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dactylorhiza.
• Phillip Cribb, “Dactylorhiza,” in Flora of North America, vol. 26, Oxford University Press, 2002, pp. 596–598.