Epipactis helleborine, commonly called broad-leaved helleborine, is a hardy terrestrial orchid native to Europe and parts of Asia that has also naturalized widely in North America, often surprising gardeners when it appears spontaneously in shaded borders, woodlands, or even urban settings. This perennial orchid is recognized by its tall, leafy stems that can reach up to three feet in height, sheathed with broad, prominently veined, lance-shaped leaves arranged alternately along the stem. In mid to late summer, it produces elegant, arching racemes of small but intricate flowers that range in color from greenish-purple to dusky pink, each one with a distinctive lip that displays subtle purple or reddish markings. Unlike many orchids that are delicate and demanding, Epipactis helleborine is remarkably adaptable, thriving in a variety of soils and light conditions, from deep forest shade to roadsides and disturbed ground, making it one of the most widespread orchids in temperate regions. Its flowers produce a sweet nectar that attracts bees, wasps, and other insects. Its combination of toughness, subtle floral charm, and intriguing ecology makes Epipactis helleborine a fascinating orchid that bridges the gap between the wild and cultivated landscape.