Seasonal Wild Flowers

Leopard Marsh-orchid

Dactylorhiza praetermissa var junialis

Orchidaceae

Late May to July

It is found throughout the country among populations of

Southern Marsh-orchid of which it is a variety. .

See the BSBI distribution map for Leopard Marsh-orchid

It grows in calcareous damp meadows and marshes.

It is a native, tuberous, perennial herb, growing up

to 50cm.

Flowers vary from rose-pink to purple with spread,

pale sepals and dark loops and streaks on the lips.

Leaves are broad, green and spotted with black loops or

splodges.

Leopard Marsh-orchid on a coastal marsh,

West Bexington, Dorset

Flower spike

Purple, looped markings

Close-up of looped marks on a leaf

Leaves with thick, looped markings