As it has been so dry, I was a bit fearful that Autumn Lady's-tresses would not be found this year. On one site I know well nearby none were to be found a week ago, the grass all brown and tangled with sweet-briars. But yesterday, a slightly misty/damp day, a few were to be found at another spot in the Purbeck Hills, within feet of the roadside gate and a busy public footpath. This plant was only about 6 cm high, which is fairly typical. The last UK native orchid species to flower, their appearance always marks a major junction in many a naturalists' year.

#WildflowerHour #orchids #wildflowers