
©Jim Higham

©Guy Edwardes/2020VISION
Early purple orchid
The Early purple orchid is one of the first orchids to pop up in spring. Look for its pinkish-purple flowers from April, when bluebells still carpet our woodland floors. Its leaves are dark green with dark spots.
Scientific name
Orchis masculaWhen to see
April to JuneAbout
As its name suggests, the Early purple orchid is one of our earliest flowering orchids, appearing from April to June. It is often found in habitats with non-acidic soils, such as hedgerows, banks, ancient woodland and open grassland. The pinkish-purple flowers appear on a spike of medium height.How to identify
The Early purple orchid can display up to 50 dark purple flowers, which are arranged in a dense, cone-shaped cluster on a tall spike. The lower lip of each flower has three lobes and the upper petals form a hood. The leaves of the Early purple orchid are glossy and dark green, with dark spots, and form a rosette on the ground; they appear from January onwards.Distribution
Widespread.In our area
By volunteering for Cumbria Wildlife Trust you can help with our wildlife conservation work. And you'll make new friends and learn new skills along the way.
Did you know?
The Early purple orchid gives off a strong and unpleasant smell once the flowers have been fertilised.By volunteering for Cumbria Wildlife Trust you can help with our wildlife conservation work. And you'll make new friends and learn new skills along the way.