Hybrid Marsh-orchid

What an enjoyable morning at Swaddywell NR with Kathryn Parsons co-leading our Langdyke Countryside Trust Artist in Residence 'walkshop' focusing on wild orchids. 

We looked carefully at their flower structure and how patterns on the lower lip help to identify the different marsh- orchids. We discussed their ecology and sex lives and generally immersed ourselves in their beauty. Each of us spent some time with one of our favourite plants taking photographs and nature doodling.

We saw nine different species and hybrids, although Bee Orchids and Pyramidal Orchids weren't yet in flower. A bonus discovery was a large patch of Adder's-tongue fern in the Top Field, while the glorious pinkish-red flowers of Grass Vetchling also delighted us.