HEATH SPOTTED-ORCHID Dactylorhiza maculata (Orchidaceae) Height to 50cm. Superficially similar to Common Spotted-orchid but restricted to damp, mostly acid soils on heaths and moors. FLOWERS are usually very pale, sometimes almost white, but with darker streaks and spots; the lower lip is broad and 3-lobed but the central lobe is smaller than the outer 2. Flowers borne in open spikes (May-Aug). FRUITS are egg-shaped. LEAVES are lanceolate and dark-spotted, those at the base being largest and broadest, narrower leaves sheathing the stem. STATUS-Locally common throughout.
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