Contrary to most other terrestrial orchids, these are characterised by a summer dormancy: the new leaves appear as of the end of the autumn or during the winter and persist until the blooming of the flowers in spring, to disappear as soon as the flowering has finished. No vegetation is usually visible during the summer.

Over the years and following the successive growth and dormancy cycles, Dactylorhiza not only become stronger but also multiply, thanks to the annual appearance of new bulbs.