A very variable species which is smaller than the most other Orchid species.

It grows on lime and neutral meadows with low vegetation. On this places it has been very common, but now, excessive fertilization has destroyed most of the populations in middle Europe.

The blossoms are small and colorful with variable colors. This has given this orchid the name Fool's hat in many languages.

In culture, they are very grateful plants which can be placed in groups in sunny, fresh beds together with other low plants.