Neottia ovata - Common Twayblade - (Orchidaceae)

This orchid is widespread but localised throughout the UK and Ireland. It is often found in large colonies and is tolerant of a number of habitats and substrates.

Common Twayblade

Although common and widespread throughout Northern and Central Europe this orchid can be difficult to spot growing, as it often does, amongst long grasses and other similarly green plants.

We found and photographed may of these orchids during a visit to Slovenia. The plants were very common in the Alpine meadows there, but were somewhat upstaged by the many other, more colourful orchids that grow alongside them.

Closeup of Common Twayblade

The name twayblade refers to the pair of oval leaves (two blades) near the base of the plant. The flower spike, sometimes up to 75 cm tall, can have as many as 100 separate flowers.

The specimens above were photographed at Noar Hill in Hampshire in June (top), and at Kenfig National Nature Reserve in South Wales also in June (bottom).