Dactylorhiza maculata - Heath Spotted-orchid

Tolerant of a wide range of habitats, the Heath Spotted-orchid is very common throughout Europe.

This orchid grows to around 20 cm in height which is generally smaller than the Common Spotted-orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsi) with which it is often confused. The lip of the Heath Spotted-orchid is also more rounded and without the exaggerated central tooth found on the Common Spotted-orchid. It generally prefers the acid soils associated with heaths, bogs and marshland although it will sometimes invade the more calcareous habitats favoured by the Common Spotted-orchid.

The specimen above was photographed in the uplands of Wales in late June.

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