Pyramidal Orchid is a
native
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in chalky grassland, scrubland and waste ground, to a mature height of up to 50cm.
The Pyramid Orchid is named after the triangular shape formed by the arrangement of its flowers into a flower spike. However, this shape is not always found and the flowers may often form more of a globe shape. Flowers are packed tightly onto these spikes and there may be as many as 100 flowers to a spike.
Botanic classification and naming: Pyramidal Orchid is a member of the Orchid (Orchidaceae) family. The genus name
'Anacamptis' identifies the plant as a Orchid with 'bent back' shaped flowers and its species name 'pyramidalis' means 'pyramid-shaped'.
Concerns: Orchids, like wild flowers in general, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) from being removed from the wild. Rare orchids such as the Early Spider Orchid, Monkey Orchid and Lady's Slipper Orchid are additionally protected from picking and damage.
Benefits: Attracts a wide range of butterflies and moths.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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