Orchis mascula - Early-purple Orchid
Most of the orchids found in Britain are quite rare, but the
early-purple orchid is relatively common. You will find it in woodland and in the
headlands of permanent pasture well-shaded by mature hedges.
The leaves are usually, but not always, dark spotted, and although purple is the most
common colour you may occasionally find a white variant of this spring flower. The white
sample shown below is from the Cych Valley in West Wales.
Early-purple orchids bloom from April to 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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