Heath Spotted Orchid
Dactylorhiza maculata
UK Green ListEasy to see📍 Lake District
Season
Flowers June to August.
Best time of day
Any. Sunny days for best display.
Lake District
Common on damp grassland and moorland edge across the Lakes. Foulshaw Moss has good numbers.
UK population
Widespread in western and northern Britain.
Overview
Heath spotted orchids are common in the Lakes. Damp grassland. Moorland edge. That spotted leaf. Pink flowers. June and July. Don't pick. They're slow to recover.
At a Glance
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Habitat | Damp grassland · Moorland edge · Heath |
| UK population | Widespread in western and northern Britain. |
| Lake District | Common on damp grassland and moorland edge across the Lakes. Foulshaw Moss has good numbers. |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Grassland and moorland edge. Foulshaw Moss, the fells, damp grassland. Widespread.
Identification
Spotted leaves. Pink flowers in a spike. Orchid. Several similar species. The spots on the leaves help.
Viewing & Photography Tips
June and July. Damp grassland. Foulshaw Moss. Don't pick.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Lake District biodiversity.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.