Magnificent Marsh Orchids.... or spotted orchids .... or hybrids?
Well, actually I'm not sure what these are, exactly. They were part of a swarm of hybrids between marsh orchids and common spotted orchids, growing beside the pond on Durham University's Mountjoy site. Whatever their precise identity, they are magnificent specimens. I have noticed that whenever these hybrid swarms occur you always get a few very robust, very floriferous specimens, probably displaying hybrid vigour, alongside many more that are much weaker plants.... and, quite often, a few albinos like the one on the left.
Great beautiful plants in such a very good photograph! Made my day! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteHi Roger, It made my day too when I found them. Thanks for visiting.
ReplyDeleteDifficult to say when they are so promiscuous but, no matter, they are still beautiful and the Bees still find them.
ReplyDeleteInteresting Phil
ReplyDeleteOn a recent visit to Wicken Fen, there was an area covered in orchids; all various colours. Someone there said they were all hybrids of Spotted Orchid.
Maybe this weather agrees with these plants?
Hi toffeeapple, it's always a bit of a thrill to find orchids - even the common species
ReplyDeleteHi Keith, the wet weather doesn't seem to have done their flowering much harm, does it - although pollinators must be in short supply....
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