Common twayblade Neottia ovata
Table of Contents
Plant family: Orchidaceae
Aliases: Eggleaf twayblade
Flowering period: May – July
Flower colour: Green
Preferred soil type: Calcareous soils
Habitat: Woodland, grassland, waste areas
Status: Common
General information
Common Twayblade Listera ovata, is a terrestrial species of orchid native to the UK, much of Europe and temperate Asia. Its a perennial wildflower and often found in a variety of habitats including including grassland, woodland and sometimes in open, marshy areas, preferring moist, well drained soils.
This plant typically prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight. It does best in habitats where it receives partial sunlight, but not the intense, direct sunlight of unshaded areas. The flowering period is usually from May to July.
Identification
Flower: The flowers of common twayblade are small, green or yellow-green in colour, sometimes with hints of brown or purple. They are not brightly colored and attractive like many other orchids, which makes them less conspicuous and hard to spot. Each flower has a deeply divided lip giving it two lobes, that look like two small “legs” dangling down.
Leaves: The plant takes the name “twayblade” from its two broad, opposite leaves that are located at the middle of the stem. These leaves are typically bright green and can be somewhat large, relative to the rest of the plant.
Value for wildlife
The flowers od common twayblade attract a variety of insect, including small flies and beetles. Although it’s not a major source of nectar, its presence contributes to the overall health of the pollinator community, which is important for the pollination of many species of plants.
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