Fen orchid  (Liparis loeselii)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Range

This species was once known from more than 30 separate sites but, today, is thought to survive at just four sites. Two of these are in the Norfolk Broads in East Anglia, whilst the variety ovata is found on two dune systems in South Wales and, until fairly recently, was also found in North Devon. This orchid is also found across much of central Europe where it is rare but described as 'locally common'.

You can view distribution information for this species at the National Biodiversity Network Gateway.

Habitat

The two sub-species require different habitats, the East Anglian variety favouring mossy calcareous fens, while the Welsh variety prefers wet dune slacks.

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