Epipactis – Helleborine – orchid

Description

Epipactis – Helleborine – There are about 24 species of fleshy rhizomatous, terrestrial, herbaceous orchids, in this genus. They mainly occur in temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere, in marshes, alpine meadows, rich woodland, or on dunes, a few are tropical species from Africa, Thailand and Mexico. They usually have ribbed, lance shaped to ovate leaves, arranged spirally or in 2 ranks. The spurless flowers are 2″ across, held in few to several flowers in loose or dense spikes on twisted, 3′ feet tall stalks. The upper segments of each flower spread or curve inward to form a “helmet”, and the 2 parted lower lip unites at the base to form a “cup”, with a heart shaped or triangular lobe beneath. Grow in a damp, shady border, or in a wild or woodland garden or rock garden. Grow in fertile, humus rich, moist but well drained soil in partial or deep shade. May spread freely in ideal conditions. Divide in spring.(see chart below) Prone to slugs and snails.