Dactylorhiza majalis ssp occidentalis Western Marsh-orchid R DD N Endemic
Re-directed to Dactylorhiza kerryensis.
We found a few of these orchids beginning to flower which superficially look like Dactylorhiza purpurella (Northern Marsh-orchid) but on close examination they all had distinct markings on the "wrong shaped" labellum and much wider leaves. In any case D. purpurella doesn't grow in this particular habitat. Typically this species has ring shape blotches on the leaves but in this part of Ireland leaves are often without marks.
The systematic name of this plant has changed. It is now gained full species status: Dactylorhiza occidentalis and consequently there is no D. majalis recognised in the British Isles. However changes to the names of these Western Marsh Orchids are frequent so until most lists and floras use the same nomenclature the old name will do in the title.
There is a little on mainland Britain but as the name suggests this is found most often in the west of Ireland.
Edge of Lough Rinnamona, County Clare, Ireland May 23rd 2005
Added on 27th May 2005, updated 11th December 2008, updated 28th March 2010, updated and re-directed 23rd May 2012