Heath spotted orchid???

[wellies101]

Saw this on a heathland recently, very wet and very very cold for the end of may hence the poor image quality. It appeared larger than I would expect for a heath spotted, but I think it may have become hybridised with something else to become as large as this. From ground tyo top of highest flower it was about 25-30cms. I have another picture and will post when it has been moderated.

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James

[AlanS]

I agree with the hybrid suggestion.

Looks like Heath-spotted (ericetorum) x Common-spotted (fuchsii) to me. Flower shape is closest to Heath-spotted (though not quite right), while the very pointed top to the inflorescence says Common-spotted.

[tessnell]

The flower on the right looks like common spotted orchid as the outer markings on the petals are an unbroken line. The flower on the left looks more like heath spotted orchid from the petal markings. So either two plants or a hybrid!

[Cipeen]

I'd go for the hybrid, but for different reasons. Look at the bottom of the lower lip of the flower. Heath Spotted has a continuous frilly lip and Common Spotted has a prominent pointed tooth. Yours has a frilly lip with a small tooth. Classic hybrid. I get them locally in all variations in between. I also get the hybrid(s) with Northern Marsh Orchid. Since they all hybridise freely it would be difficult to find a 'straight' one.

In writing this, I'm fully aware that these species are variable according to location.

Mine are only just coming into flower now (Co. Donegal).

[wellies101]

Thankyou all

Greatly appreciated info. I know its not clear from the photo, but it was definitely all the same plant. As the photo shows the flowers were so top heavy the supporting stems were bending under their weight.

I'm better at ID"ing" animals over plants hence why I posted this, but am I now right to assume that it is most likely a heath spotted x common spotted cross?