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.
Wild Orchids in Wales
Dozens of wild orchid are featured in the First Nature Guide to
Locating and Identifying Wild Orchids in Wales
Wild Orchids in The Burren
Ireland's world-famous limestone pavement habitat
in County Clare is home to nearly every wild orchid found in Ireland.
A full colour guide to the Burren's orchids is now available
|
|
