Epipactis leptochila - Narrow-lipped Helleborine - (Orchidaceae)

Another member of the confusing Epipactis group of orchids, the Narrow-lipped Helleborine occurs in chalk-based woodlands in central and southern England. It has also been reported from Kenfig National Nature Reserve in South Wales although these reports are unconfirmed.

Narrow-lipped Helleborine

Picture by kind permission of Anne Horsfall

Although these orchids occur in chalk or limestone-based beech and hornbeam woodland in the south of England, they occur in association with Birch and Alder trees in Scotland and the north of England. The specimens shown on this page were found at Creech Hill, near Purbeck in Dorset. This orchid blooms from early June to mid August.

Epipactis leptochila also occurs in mainland northern Europe but it is more common in England, although woodland clearance is causing its decline.