Heath Spotted Orchid

This orchid grows on heaths and moorlands and is very common in the New Forest, in dry, and reasonably damp habitats. It grows from 8" to 18" tall. Photo New Forest, Holmsley 10 June 2002.

Heath Spotted Orchid

It can be distinguished from the common spotted orchid by the shape of its lip, which is very broad, with all three lobes more or less level, and only small indentations between them. Photo Marchwood area of the New Forest 13 June 2001.

Heath Spotted Orchid

Where found, it usually appears in large numbers. Another Holmsley photo, this time 28 June 2003.

Heath Spotted Orchid

An example of a white plant taken in the New Forest at Tiptoe on 20 June 2002.

Heath Spotted Orchid

Close-up of the above plant.

Heath Spotted Orchid

This is another example of aberrations in orchids. Despite its appearance, this is a heath spotted. It lacks any colouring and is mishapen. Holmsley again, 28 June 2003.

Heath Spotted Orchid

Close-up view of the above plant.

All pictures
© Peter Burford