Greater BUTTERFLY ORCHID : Platanthera chlorantha
Note that the butterfly orchid is Platanthera chlorantha, but is extremelly similar to the lesser butterfly orchid Platanthera bifolia. Our example appears to be the former.
Native orchids such as the butterfly orchid can be found in damp areas such as parts of our muirland or open woodland. UK Wildlflowers tells us : The Lesser Butterfly-orchid will also grow in a greater range of habitats than the Greater which is more likely to be found in calcareous woodland or open grassland. It was therefore quite surprising to find this one growing in the as yet unmown grass within Lomond Industrial Estate at the end of June (2023). Another look and two more were found here. These are small plants and jid amongst the grasses, selfheal and shamrocks. The Woodland Trust notes : The greater butterfly-orchid grows throughout Europe, but is scarce in southern regions. It’s found throughout the UK, most frequently in the south, but is uncommon. Spot the plants in unimproved grassland and open broadleaved woodland. And goes on to say : This species has suffered declines in the UK. In the lowlands it has been lost through drainage, woodland disturbance and agricultural intensification, while upland populations have been lost to intensive grazing. The plant is now classified as Near Threatened and is uncommon in the UK.
Thank goodness the WDC has been selective in its mowing regime into mid-summer.
How this one got here in the first place is a bit of a mystery. If left alone it could become quite a bit taller.
Thank goodness the WDC has been selective in its mowing regime into mid-summer.
How these got here in a lawn within an industrial area is a bit of a mystery. If left alone it could become quite a bit taller.
UK WILDFLOWERS : https://www.ukwildflowers.com/Web_pages/platanthera_bifolia_lesser_butterfly_orchid.htm
WOODLAND TRUST : https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/wild-flowers/greater-butterfly-orchid/
