Dactylorhiza fuchsii is one of several Marsh and Spotted orchids native to Europe.
They are tuberous, terrestial orchids and this species can be found growing wild in a wide range of locations from mountain slopes to conifer and chestnut forests to damp meadows and banks of streams.
Each spring the tuber produces erect flower stems with between 8-12 purple spotted lanceolate leaves arranged alternately on the lower part of the stem.
In late spring the stem are topped with a dense spike of orchid like flowers. The colours vary from pinks to whites or mauves all with dark purple markings. The flowers are similar to those of Dachtylorhiza maculata the main difference in the trilobed lip is smaller and the central lobe is longer and more prominent.
These are cooler climate orchids they are wonderful plants adding colour to woodland and meadow gardens. If used in garden borders they are best planted in groups to create colourful statement. They can also be used in rockeries, containers and even bog gardens as long as soil drains and does not become waterlogged.