Orchids of Ireland

The Heath Spotted-orchid & Common Spotted-orchid are widespread in Ireland. Both species are highly variable in shape and colour pattern, and it seems to this photographer that no two plants are ever alike. Not only this, but each can also hybridize with other species of the same genus (Dactylorhiza), creating a bewildering range of intermediate forms that can be difficult to distinguish. These hybrids, often designated as Dactylorhiza x transiens, inherit characteristics from both parent species. Still, regardless of hybridization I've done my best to separate them as either one or the other.