Plant species

lady orchid Orchis purpurea

Orchidaceae

Species information

Other scientific names

Orchis militaris subsp. purpureaOrchis fusca

Description

A robust terrestrial orchid with a dense, cylindrical inflorescence. The dark reddish-brown to purple perianth forms a helmet above a pale, deeply three-lobed lip marked with purple spots and small tufts of hairs.

Plant traits

Growth form

orchid

Life cycle

perennial

Height

30–60 cm

Typical season

Active growth

Flowering

Fruiting

Timing varies with site and year.

Habitat conditions

Habitat

forest · open woodland · forest edge · shrubland · rocky habitats

Light

partial shade · full sun

Moisture

dry · mesic

Soil

base-rich

Substrate

calcareous

Pollination

insect pollination

Status

native

Interesting facts

Its flowers offer no nectar despite attracting a range of insects. Studies of Belgian populations found that fruit production can be low even when plants flower abundantly.