Epipactis palustris - Marsh Helleborine

The similarity of this orchid to its more exotic tropical cousins perhaps accounts for the view that this is one of the most beautiful of our wild European orchids.

The Marsh Helleborine is widespread throughout Europe but is in decline in the UK. In Wales it occurs in huge displays in both its colour forms - maroon and cream and yellow-green and cream - although the maroon one is more common.

The specimens above were photographed in Anglesey, North Wales in July

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