Hardy and easy-going, Epipactis royleana is an unusual and rarely offered beauty, which is perfect for both experienced and novice gardeners alike. Incredibly hardy, and happy in both borders and containers, this orchid boasts attractive, deeply ribbed, lanceolate and elongated mid-green leaves around 15cm long are held on strong stems. In late spring, around 15 buds appear at the top of each stem, each opens to reveal goblet-shaped blooms in shades of dusky pink and purple. Originating from the mountains of central Asia, found growing in moist meadows, Epipactis royleana is hardy to around -20°C, so winter protection will not be required. Preferring to be grown in partial shade in moist, cool soil, this strong, tolerant herbaceous perennial forms rhizomes beneath the soil. New shoots develop in spring, spreading into a lush clump over time, reaching a mature height of 70cm, and spreading to around 45cm.
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