GYMNADENIA ODORATISSIMA
E: Short-spurred Fragrant Orchid
F: Gymnadenia odorant
G: Duftende Haendelwurz

A smaller sister of G. conopsea which has shorter, brighter blossoms. It is also rumoured to have a stronger odor, especially at night.

White albino forms of this plant are not uncommon.

It can be cultivated like G. conopsea, perhaps with a little more moisture. I have never owned this species, but according to the experts, the culture can be considered fairly easy.

From east Asia comes G. camtschatica which is relatively unknown in Europe. It has large hand-sized bulbs which can be kept in container culture. Outdoors it can be kept only with protection from winter rains and vermin.