The Luck of the Irish: Ireland's Native Orchids

When you think of orchids, you typically think of tropical rain forests rather than the fields and mountains of Ireland. But , did you know Ireland is home to approximately 30 native species of orchids? In comparison to many epiphytic orchids that grow in the treetops, all of Ireland’s native orchids are terrestrial, growing in fields, bogs and limestone crevices. 

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, we thought you might enjoy learning about some lesser-known orchids from the green island.

Bee Orchid
One of the best-known Irish orchids is the Bee Orchid (Ophrys Apifera). This purple perennial pops out in the summer around June and July. It can be found among sandy dunes and limestone pastures. This orchid gets its name from it’s lower lip petal that is furry and patterned to resemble a bee. This plant mimics the female bee in appearance and puts out an enticing scent to attract male bees, which in turn pollinates the Bee Orchid.

Pyramidal Orchid
As you can imagine, this orchid (Anacamptis Pyramidalis) gets its name from the conical shape of its flower spikes. The pyramid-like cluster of young flowers eventually forms into an egg-shaped appearance as the flowers mature. These stunning pinkish-purple flowers can be found along the coastal dunes of Ireland and England in June and July. Pure white specimens are rare but can also be found alongside purple specimens. 

Western Marsh Orchid
The Western Marsh Orchid (Dactylorhiza occidentalis), commonly found in the Burren region of Ireland, also grows in other European countries such as Switzerland and Germany. This gorgeous orchid boasts dark spotted leaves with dense flower spikes ranging in length from 1.5” to 6”. Seven to 40 red-purple and pinkish-purple blossoms cover each spike. The Western Marsh Orchid makes for quite the site along roadsides, grasslands and marshes. 

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Greater Butterfly Orchid Platanthera chlorantha Phylum: Magnoliophyta - Class: Liliopsida - Order: Orchidales - Family: Orchidaceae

Bird's Nest Orchid Neottia nidus-avis Phylum: Magnoliophyta - Class: Liliopsida - Order: Orchidales - Family: Orchidaceae

Frog Orchid Dactylorhiza viridis Phylum: Magnoliophyta - Class: Liliopsida - Order: Orchidales - Family: Orchidaceae

Fly Orchid Ophrys insectifera Phylum: Magnoliophyta - Class: Liliopsida - Order: Orchidales - Family: Orchidaceae

May the luck of the Irish be with you and your orchids.

Happy Blooming with Better-Gro. ​