WildBristol.uk - Discovering Wildlife in Bristol

Stace 4:

Gymnadenia densiflora (Wahlenb.) A. Dietr. (G. conopsea ssp. densiflora (Wahlenb.) E.G. Camus, Bergon & A. Camus) - Marsh Fragrant-orchid.

Stems to 90cm; leaves linear-lanceolate, the lowest about 6-15cm; flowers (10)11-13(14.5)mm horizontally across; labellum conspicuously lobed, (3)3.5-4(4.5) x (5.5)6.5-7(8)mm; lateral sepals held horizontally, 6-7 x about 1mm; spur (13)14-16(17)mm; (2n=40). Native; base-rich fens and usually North-facing chalk grassland; scattered and local in Britain North to Westmorland, West Ross, scattered through Ireland (commonest sp.); distribution very uncertain.

Key:

• Lateral sepals mostly 5-7 x about 1mm; labellum conspicuously lobed, (4.5)5.5-7(8)mm wide
• Labellum much wider than long, mostly 3.5-4 x 6.5-7mm; lateral sepals about 6-7mm; spur mostly 14-16mm