Neottia cordata (formerly Listera cordata) - Lesser Twayblade - (Orchidaceae)

Most common in Scotland but also found in northern England, North Wales and parts of Ireland, the Lesser Twayblade is found in moorland, bogs and other mossy places and occasionally in pine forests.

Lesser Twayblade
Lesser Twayblade, North Yorkshire, 13th June 2009
Picture courtesy Stephen

Although said to be common and widespread Neottia cordata is very hard to find. It is tolerant of a number of different soil types.

Lesser Twayblade Neottia cordata

Pictures of Neottia cordata by kind permission of Alan Gendle

The name twayblade refers to the pair of heart-shaped leaves (two blades) near the base of the plant. The flower spike is usually between 5 and 10 cm tall and the individual flowers are a mixture of green, pink and brown, although some are almost yellow.

Lesser Twayblade flowers in May and June and can sometimes be found in quite large colonies.