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Description
Dactylorhiza Praetermissa, also known as Southern Marsh Orchid, is a beautiful and colorful orchid species native to Europe. It is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 50cm in height and blooms from May to August. The flowers are usually pink or purple, but can also be white or yellow, and have a distinctive fringed lip. The plant has a tuberous root system and grows in large clumps in damp meadows, marshes, and fens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Dactylorhiza |
Appearance
Dactylorhiza Praetermissa has a tall and slender stem with a few basal leaves at the bottom. The leaves are lance-shaped and usually have dark spots. The flowers grow in a dense spike and have six petals and sepals. The lateral sepals are curved upwards and form a hood over the column. The lip is broad and fringed with irregular teeth. The color of the flowers can vary from pink, purple, white, or yellow, with darker veins and spots. The plant has a pleasant fragrance and attracts various pollinators.
Care Guide
Dactylorhiza Praetermissa is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers to grow in moist and fertile soil with good drainage. The plant can tolerate partial shade or full sun, but it needs enough sunlight to bloom. Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dactylorhiza Praetermissa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by snails or slugs that can chew on the leaves and flowers. To prevent these pests, use organic slug pellets or copper tape around the plant. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew or rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation. If the plant is infected, spray it with a fungicide.
Habitat
Dactylorhiza Praetermissa is native to Europe and grows in various habitats, such as damp meadows, marshes, fens, and riverbanks. It prefers to grow in wet or moist soil with good drainage and can tolerate partial shade or full sun. The plant is an indicator of high-quality grassland and is protected in some areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dactylorhiza Praetermissa be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container, but make sure the container has good drainage and is filled with moist soil. Keep the soil moist, and fertilize the plant regularly.
Q: How often should I water Dactylorhiza Praetermissa?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely.
Q: Can Dactylorhiza Praetermissa be propagated from seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from seed, but it requires specific conditions, such as a cold and moist stratification period. It is easier to divide the clumps in autumn or spring.
Q: Is Dactylorhiza Praetermissa toxic to pets?
A: The plant is not considered toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep pets away from any plant to avoid ingestion or accidental damage.
Related Plants
- Dactylorhiza Fuchsii
- Dactylorhiza Majalis
- Dactylorhiza Incarnata
- Dactylorhiza Maculata
References
- Orchids of Britain and Europe, Pierre Delforge
- The European Garden Flora, James Cullen et al.
- RHS Plant Finder, Royal Horticultural Society
