Common Twayblade 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 75cm.
Common Twayblade is so named because it only has two roundish leaves at the base (although it has been known to have three). It is an inconspicuous orchid, bearing its greenish flowers on a leafless stem, making it well camouflaged and difficult to spot.
Botanic classification and naming: Common Twayblade is a member of the Orchid (Orchidaceae) family. The genus name
'Neottia' identifies the plant as a Orchid with a 'nest-like' root system and its species name 'ovata' means 'oval-shaped (leaves)'.
Concerns: Orchids, like wild flowers in general, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) from being removed from the wild. Listed rare orchids, such as the Early Spider Orchid, Monkey Orchid and Lady's Slipper Orchid, are additionally protected from picking and damage. Common Twayblade, however, is one of the UK's commonest orchids and is not a listed species.
Benefits: Common Twayblade provides nectar for pollinating wasps, sawflies and beetles.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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