Dactylorhiza Praetermissa

Southern marsh orchid is a robust native of wet meadows, fens, marshes, dune slacks and damp roadside verges in western Europe. Strong stems carry dense spikes of rose-pink to rich purple flowers, their broad lips marked with loops, lines and spots. The leaves are often plain green, although spotted forms occur, and the finger-like tubers give the genus its name. Praetermissa means overlooked, reflecting the plant's relatively late recognition as a distinct orchid. It is an impressive subject for a carefully managed, unfertilised bog garden where summer moisture remains constant.