Burnt-tip Orchid
Orchis ustulata
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Burnt-tip Orchid is a white orchid with a deep crimson peak – the “burnt tip” in question.
How to spot it
This small orchid can be difficult to spot. Plants grow from a tuber which is replaced each year and tend to grow in small clumps. Pale green leaves form a rosette from which a flower spike holding between 15-50 flowers emerges.
Where to spot it
Burnt-tip Orchid is confined to a scattering of sites in southern England, especially the Wiltshire Downs. It is found in short, chalk downland turf, and occasionally strays into meadows.
How’s it doing?
Burnt-tip Orchid was once more common and its scarce population continues to decline. This decline is due to changes in agricultural practices.
Things you might not know
- Burnt-tip Orchid is the County Flower of Wiltshire, where the largest colonies can be found.
- The flowers smell of honey but produce no nectar.
- Ustulata comes from the Latin word ustulus which means ‘slightly burnt.’
