Orchids of the UK - Burnt-tip Orchid

Orchids of the UK

Burnt-tip Orchid Neotinea ustulate

Rob Read

Above: The Burnt-tip Orchid is surely one of our most beautiful orchids.

©Chris Button/Shutterstock

The Burnt-tip Orchid (or Burnt Orchid as it is also known) is another relatively rare species in the UK, but there are some well-known locations where it flowers reliably every year in April and May. It is mainly found in the south, with notable colonies on the chalk grasslands of the South Downs in Hampshire and Wiltshire. It also occurs in suitable habitats throughout Europe.  

The Burnt-tip Orchid varies in height from 10-50cm and is a relatively robust-looking plant with a strong stem and broad leaves at its base. The flowers change as they develop: starting as a tight clustered oval of dark red buds, spreading down the stem as they open, revealing white flowers marked with dark spots. The red buds which remain at the top of the plant give the species is common name. 

This plant is a species I haven’t seen for many years and have never photographed. This is something that I aim to remedy next year, particularly as I live close to some known colonies. In my opinion, it is one of the most beautiful orchids we have, and I shall share my images with you next spring if I am fortunate enough to find them in peak condition.

Rob Read. September 2021.

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