Dactylorhiza purpurella - Northern Marsh-orchid

Often rather stumpy-looking but nonetheless beautiful, the Northern Marsh-orchid is often accompanied by a wealth of other lime-loving wildflowers.

The Northern Marsh-orchid typically grows to between 15 to 30 cm in height although taller specimens can occur. Difficult to distinguish from the Southern Marsh-orchid the lip of the Northern Marsh-orchid has a distinctly 'diamond-shaped' and angular appearance. The lip of the Southern Marsh-orchid is more gently rounded.

The specimen above was photographed in Angelsey, North Wales, in late spring.

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