The leaves are broad and oblong-lanceolate, forming a rosette about the base of the plant and surrounding the flower spike.

The flower's labellum is pale pink or white, with a center spotted by clusters of violaceous or purple hairs.

It prefers limestone or chalk soil and partially shaded locations at an altitude of 0–1,350 metres (0–4,429 ft) above sea level.

The three species often hybridize, making them difficult to identify, although the shape of the labellum is distinct to each species.Deer, especially the muntjac, and slugs are among the greatest threats to this orchid.

Human activity - woodland clearance, picking flowers or uprooting plants - is a major concern.