Dactylorhiza viridis - Frog Orchid
Formerly placed in its own genus, Coeloglossum,
the Frog Orchid was reclassified following the discovery
that its genetic makeup is very similar to that of the
Spotted-orchids and Marsh-orchids with which it sometimes
hybridises.
Hard to spot on even closely cut or grazed turf due to
its small size (normally 5 - 15 cm) the Frog Orchid's
flowers are supposed to resemble frogs. It depends on how
vivid an imagination you have! This orchid can be found
in Britain, Europe, the Near East and a subspecies also
grows in America.
The specimen above was photographed in Hampshire in
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
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