Dactylorhiza majalis ssp. occidentalis - Western Marsh-orchid

Another orchid that is difficult to identify and its status in the UK is rather unclear. It is known to appear in Ireland where it is sometimes referred to as Dactylorhiza occidentalis.

This is another robust-looking marsh orchid and there is much argument about its range due to confusion with other orchids including the Early Marsh-orchid. The flowers have broader and flatter lips that often have three rather pronounced lobes, whereas the lips of the Early Marsh-orchid are folded back on themselves. The Western Marsh-orchid is recorded in Europe from Northern Spain and as far north as southern Scandinavia.

The specimen above was photographed in the Burren in mid-June.