Early purple orchid by Brendan Joyce 1/2
Early purple orchid at NWT Foxley Wood by Brendan Joyce 2/2

Early purple orchid Orchis mascula

The early purple orchid is an erect hairless plant 20-40cms tall.

Conservation status

The early purple orchid was once common as it can be found in a variety of habitats. However, because of development and changes in farming practices the orchid is not as common as it was. The improvement and protection of habitat provided by the North Norfolk Living Landscape scheme will benefit this orchid and allow it to spread.

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Did you know?

A flour called salep or sachlav is made of the ground tubers of this or some other species of orchids. It contains a nutritious starch-like polysaccharide called glucomannan. In some magical traditions, its root is called Adam and Eve Root. It is said that witches used tubers of this orchid in love potions.

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