The Common Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. It thrives in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands, often favoring calcareous soils. This orchid is characterized by its distinctive spotted leaves and dense spikes of pink to purple flowers, each adorned with darker spots and stripes. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, the Common Spotted Orchid contributes to biodiversity in meadow ecosystems, supporting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It serves as an indicator species for healthy, well-balanced soil conditions, making it valuable in natural farming systems. Historically, orchids have been appreciated for their aesthetic value and their role in traditional medicine, although specific uses for Dactylorhiza fuchsii are limited. This orchid can be part of a meadow guild, complementing grasses and other wildflowers, enhancing the ecological tapestry of the landscape.
Growing Details
The Common Spotted Orchid prefers well-drained, calcareous soils and thrives in sunny to partially shaded areas. Soil preparation should include the incorporation of organic matter to improve moisture retention. Mulching with leaf litter or straw can help maintain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include native grasses and wildflowers that do not compete aggressively for resources. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Propagation is typically through se
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Dactylorhiza fuchsii</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and parts of Asia
applicable geo region: Europe
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 30 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(1/5)
medicinal uses: While specific medicinal uses for Dactylorhiza fuchsii are not well-documented, related orchid species have been used in traditional remedies for respiratory and digestive issues. Caution is advised as orchids can be sensitive to overharvesting.
health concerns:
other uses:
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Dactylorhiza fuchsii
common names: Common Spotted Orchid; Heath Spotted Orchid
family: Orchidaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Dactylorhiza
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 0.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity: Medium
light demands: Medium
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(6/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Slow
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.2 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: The Common Spotted Orchid prefers well-drained, calcareous soils and thrives in sunny to partially shaded areas. Soil preparation should include the incorporation of organic matter to improve moisture retention. Mulching with leaf litter or straw can help maintain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include native grasses and wildflowers that do not compete aggressively for resources. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Propagation is typically through se
Potential Disturbances: The Common Spotted Orchid is generally pest-free, but young shoots may occasionally be targeted by slugs and snails. Natural pest management includes encouraging predators like frogs and birds, and using barriers such as crushed eggshells or copper tape around plants.
Growth Timeline
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