There are only a few native orchid species in Central Europe. One of the more common species that is also suitable for the garden are the representatives popularly known as orchids. They also come in several types.
Which orchid species occur in Germany?
The species of orchid found in Germany include man's orchid (Orchis mascula), fox's orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii), black orchid (Gymnadenia conopsea), broad-leaved orchid (Dactylorhiza majalis), spotted orchid (Dactylorhiza maculata) and Small orchid (Anacamptis morio). These hardy orchids are suitable for bog beds, flower meadows and flower beds.
Various genera belong to the orchids
Orchid is the generic term for a number of domestic orchids. In addition to the genera Dactylorhiza (around 40 species) and Orchis, this also includes some monotypic species such as Gymnadenia.
Species of orchid found in Germany
- Man Orchid (Orchis mascula)
- Fuchs' orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii)
- Gymnadenia conopsea
- Broad-leaved Orchid (Dactylorhiza majalis)
- Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza maculata)
- Small Orchid (Anacamptis morio)
Not all orchid species have the same requirements in terms of location, soil quality and care. To be on the safe side, you should find out which conditions the orchid species you plant prefers.
Growing orchids in the garden
All orchid species are hardy and are grown perennial. Most varieties prefer a location that is as sunny as possible. Suitable places for planting orchids are bog beds, flower meadows and flower beds. Orchid feels particularly comfortable near other orchids.
The plant substrate should be nice and crumbly. Mixing in coarse wood chips promotes he althy growth. When caring for orchids, make sure that the bed is always kept slightly moist.
In autumn, dactylorhizae move in and form daughter tubers on which a winter bud appears. Some of the Orchis species, on the other hand, move in in the summer. A rosette grows at the planting site, from which a new orchid sprouts the following spring.
Orchid is under nature protection
In Germany, orchid has become very rare in the wild and is therefore protected. Digging and picking is prohibited.
For planting in the garden, the gardener can use plants from the nursery. These are propagated in the laboratory.
Most domestic orchids are not suitable for keeping in the garden. An exception is orchid, which also develops well outdoors.
Tip
The flowering times of the different orchid species fall at different times. Some species begin to bloom as early as May, while others do not show their first flowers until the end of June. Depending on the species, the flowering period lasts until July or August.
