Orchid - for ID if possible

[nutmeg]

I rarely venture into the plant forums, but wondered if this orchid is identifiable from this shot. It was one of many growing in a meadow on acid heathland in mid-Lincolnshire. I suspect it's a spotted one of some sort.



Thanks for any help.

[leifus]

Common spotted orchid, Dactylorhiza fuchsii

[nutmeg]

Thanks Leif . I'm out of my depth when it's things botanical!

[leifus]

I take it back, it's actually heath-spotted - I didn't read the accompanying text closely enough!

Dorts reminded me of the variablilty these two species show, and this one has fewer spots on the lip than I'm used to, and more purple loops which I'm more used to associating with common-spotted.

so heath-spotted it is!

sorry about that, i'll take more care next time!

[Dorts]

I agree with leif. There is a 'strain' of Heath Spotted Orchid with a flower very similar to Common Spotted, at a glance, especially regards the markings on the lip. But the lip itself gives it away.
In Common Spotted, the lip is distinctly divided into three parts, as though an up-turned 'v' has been snipped fron either side if the central part.
In Heath Spotted the lip is much broader, more 'blousy', with the 'v' snips far less well defined.
Also the habitat should be considered; Heath Spotted much prefers damp, acid soils.
A lovely plant and photo.
Dorts.

[nutmeg]

Many thanks to both Leif and Dorts. It's a beautiful plant and I'm glad I've got a name for it