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Greater Butterfly Orchid

Platanthera chlorantha

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
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Plant Profile
Similar Species
Other Information
Distribution Map

Flowering Months:

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Order:

Asparagales

Family:

Orchidaceae (Orchid)

Also in this family:

Autumn Lady's Tresses, Bee Orchid, Birdsnest Orchid, Bog Orchid, Broad-leaved Helleborine, Burnt Orchid, Common Fragrant Orchid, Common Spotted Orchid, Common Twayblade, Coralroot Orchid, Creeping Lady's Tresses, Dark Red Helleborine, Dense-flowered Orchid, Dune Helleborine, Early Marsh Orchid, Early Purple Orchid, Early Spider Orchid, Fen Orchid, Fly Orchid, Frog Orchid, Ghost Orchid, Green-flowered Helleborine, Green-winged Orchid, Heart-flowered Tongue Orchid, Heath Fragrant Orchid, Heath Spotted Orchid, Hebridean Marsh Orchid, Irish Lady's Tresses, Irish Marsh Orchid, Lady Orchid, Lady's-slipper Orchid, Late Spider Orchid, Lesser Butterfly Orchid, Lesser Twayblade, Lindisfarne Helleborine, Lizard Orchid, Man Orchid, Marsh Fragrant Orchid, Marsh Helleborine, Military Orchid, Monkey Orchid, Musk Orchid, Narrow-leaved Helleborine, Narrow-leaved Marsh Orchid, Narrow-lipped Helleborine, Northern Marsh Orchid, Pyramidal Orchid, Red Helleborine, Small White Orchid, Small-flowered Tongue Orchid, Southern Marsh Orchid, Tongue Orchid, Violet Helleborine, Wasp Orchid, White Helleborine, Young's Helleborine

Type:

Flower

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Maximum Size:

90 centimetres tall

Habitats:

Bogs, fens, grassland, meadows, wetland, woodland.

Flower:

White, 4 petals

The Greater Butterfly Orchid (Platanthera chlorantha) is a striking wildflower native to the UK, renowned for its elegant and delicate appearance. This perennial orchid features tall, slender spikes adorned with numerous fragrant, white flowers that resemble the wings of a butterfly, hence its name. The flowers emit a sweet, alluring scent, particularly in the evening, attracting a variety of nocturnal pollinators such as moths. Each bloom is characterised by long, narrow petals and a distinctive green spur. Typically found in damp, semi-shaded habitats like meadows, woodlands, and grasslands, the Greater Butterfly Orchid thrives in lime-rich soils. This species is a testament to the UK's rich botanical heritage, contributing to the biodiversity and ecological balance of its native landscapes.

Fruit:

The fruit of the Greater Butterfly Orchid is a slender, cylindrical capsule that develops after the orchid's distinctive flowers have been pollinated. These capsules contain numerous tiny seeds, a characteristic feature of orchids, enabling the plant to disperse widely when the capsules eventually split open. Each capsule is green when immature, maturing to a brownish hue as it ripens. The seeds are incredibly light and minute, facilitating their dispersal by the wind, which carries them to new locations where they can potentially germinate. The fruiting process of the Greater Butterfly Orchid plays a crucial role in the propagation and survival of this elegant species, contributing to its presence in the diverse habitats of the UK.

Leaves:

The leaves of the Greater Butterfly Orchid are a key feature of this elegant wildflower. Typically, the plant produces two large, broad, and glossy basal leaves that lie close to the ground. These leaves are lanceolate in shape, with a pointed tip and a smooth margin, and can grow up to 20 centimetres in length. The vivid green leaves are often slightly fleshy and have prominent parallel veins, contributing to their robust and healthy appearance. As one moves up the flowering stem, smaller, narrower leaves can be observed clasping the stem, but these are less conspicuous than the basal leaves. The lush foliage of the Greater Butterfly Orchid not only supports its growth but also enhances its visual appeal in its natural habitats, such as woodlands, meadows, and grasslands across the UK.

Aroma:

The Greater Butterfly Orchid is renowned for its delightful fragrance, which is particularly strong and alluring during the evening and nighttime hours. The flowers emit a sweet, delicate scent that attracts nocturnal pollinators, such as moths, playing a crucial role in the plant's reproductive process. This enchanting fragrance adds to the charm of the orchid, making it a memorable experience for those who encounter it in its natural habitat. The scent is one of the key features that distinguish the Greater Butterfly Orchid from other wildflowers, contributing to its reputation as one of the UK's most fragrant and visually appealing orchids.

Frequency (UK):

Unusual

Lesser Butterfly Orchid

Summary

Platanthera chlorantha, also known as the Greater Butterfly-orchid, is a species of orchid that is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It typically blooms in the late spring or early summer, with clusters of greenish-white flowers that have a strong, sweet fragrance. It is commonly found in damp, grassy meadows, fens, and bogs. It is a protected species in some countries and it is important to not pick or disturb the plants in the wild. It is also considered as a threatened species in some countries due to habitat loss and degradation.

Blog

The Greater Butterfly Orchid, Platanthera chlorantha, is a beautiful and fragrant species of orchid native to Europe and parts of Asia. This orchid is known for its large white flowers, which are pollinated by a variety of insects including moths, butterflies, and bees.

Appearance

The Greater Butterfly Orchid has tall spikes that can grow up to 90cm in height. These spikes are covered in small white flowers with a greenish-yellow center. Each flower has a distinctive lip that curves upwards, resembling the wings of a butterfly. The flowers bloom from June to August and emit a sweet, vanilla-like fragrance.

Habitat and Distribution

The Greater Butterfly Orchid can be found throughout much of Europe, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, as well as parts of Asia, including China and Japan. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and marshes, often in calcareous soil.

Pollination

The Greater Butterfly Orchid relies on insects for pollination. Its flowers produce nectar as a reward for pollinators, and the sweet scent attracts them to the flowers. Once the insect lands on the flower, it brushes against the reproductive structures and transfers pollen from one flower to another, allowing for fertilization and seed production.

Conservation

The Greater Butterfly Orchid is listed as a species of "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, it is still susceptible to habitat loss due to urbanization and agricultural practices. Additionally, overcollection by enthusiasts can have a negative impact on local populations. As such, it is important to admire this beautiful orchid in its natural habitat and to refrain from removing it from the wild.

Cultural Significance

The Greater Butterfly Orchid has a long history of use in traditional medicine. It was believed to have healing properties and was used to treat a variety of ailments, including fevers, headaches, and digestive problems. However, it is important to note that the use of wild orchids in traditional medicine can have negative impacts on local populations and should be avoided.

In addition to its medicinal properties, the Greater Butterfly Orchid has also been used in perfumery. The sweet, vanilla-like fragrance of the flowers has made it a popular ingredient in high-end fragrances.

The Greater Butterfly Orchid is a beautiful and fragrant species of orchid that plays an important role in the ecosystem as a pollinator-attracting plant. While it is not currently threatened, it is important to take steps to protect this species from habitat loss and overcollection. By doing so, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and benefits of this incredible plant.

The Greater Butterfly Orchid has also been the subject of scientific study, particularly in relation to its genetics and evolution. Researchers have investigated the genetic diversity of different populations of the orchid, as well as its relationship to other species within the genus Platanthera. This research has helped to shed light on the evolutionary history of this group of orchids and has provided valuable insights into the mechanisms that have shaped their genetic diversity.

In addition, the Greater Butterfly Orchid has been the focus of conservation efforts in many parts of its range. Efforts have been made to protect and restore its habitat, as well as to raise public awareness about the importance of this species and the threats it faces. By working to conserve this orchid, we can help to protect the biodiversity of our planet and ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and benefits of this remarkable plant.

The Greater Butterfly Orchid is a fascinating and important species of orchid that has captivated scientists, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts for many years. With its beautiful flowers, sweet fragrance, and important ecological role, it is a true treasure of the natural world that deserves our attention and protection.

The Greater Butterfly Orchid is also a popular subject for nature photography and has been featured in many books, magazines, and online galleries. Its striking appearance and delicate beauty make it a favorite among photographers, who often capture its exquisite details and subtle nuances in their images.

Moreover, the Greater Butterfly Orchid has been used in traditional culture in various ways. For example, in some parts of Europe, it is believed that placing the flowers of the orchid under the pillow can bring about prophetic dreams. In other cultures, it is considered a symbol of love, beauty, and purity.

Furthermore, the Greater Butterfly Orchid is a valuable indicator species for the health of ecosystems in which it grows. As a pollinator-attracting plant, its presence is an important sign of a healthy and diverse ecosystem. Additionally, its sensitivity to changes in habitat and soil conditions make it an excellent bioindicator of environmental change.

Finally, the Greater Butterfly Orchid is a testament to the incredible diversity and beauty of the natural world. With its delicate flowers, sweet fragrance, and important ecological role, it reminds us of the many wonders that exist in our world and the importance of preserving them for future generations to enjoy.

30 Amazing Greater Butterfly Orchid Facts

Here are 30 facts about the Greater Butterfly Orchid:

The scientific name of the Greater Butterfly Orchid is Platanthera chlorantha.
It is also known as the Greater White Butterfly Orchid.
The orchid is native to Europe and parts of Asia.
It can grow up to 90cm in height.
The flowers of the orchid are white with a greenish-yellow center.
Each flower has a distinctive lip that curves upwards, resembling the wings of a butterfly.
The flowers emit a sweet, vanilla-like fragrance.
The orchid blooms from June to August.
It is pollinated by a variety of insects, including moths, butterflies, and bees.
The Greater Butterfly Orchid grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and marshes.
It is often found in calcareous soil.
The orchid is listed as a species of "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Habitat loss due to urbanization and agricultural practices is a threat to the orchid.
Overcollection by enthusiasts can also have a negative impact on local populations.
The orchid has a long history of use in traditional medicine.
It was believed to have healing properties and was used to treat fevers, headaches, and digestive problems.
The use of wild orchids in traditional medicine can have negative impacts on local populations.
The orchid has been used in perfumery due to its sweet, vanilla-like fragrance.
It is a popular subject for nature photography.
The orchid has been the subject of scientific study in relation to its genetics and evolution.
Researchers have investigated the genetic diversity of different populations of the orchid.
The orchid has also been the focus of conservation efforts in many parts of its range.
Efforts have been made to protect and restore its habitat.
The orchid is an important indicator species for the health of ecosystems in which it grows.
Its presence is an important sign of a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
The orchid is considered a symbol of love, beauty, and purity in some cultures.
In some parts of Europe, placing the flowers of the orchid under the pillow can bring about prophetic dreams.
The orchid is a valuable bioindicator of environmental change.
The Greater Butterfly Orchid reminds us of the incredible diversity and beauty of the natural world.
It is a true treasure of the natural world that deserves our attention and protection.

In summary, the Greater Butterfly Orchid is a beautiful and fragrant species of orchid that is native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is known for its large white flowers, which are pollinated by a variety of insects, and its sweet vanilla-like fragrance. The orchid grows in a variety of habitats and is an important indicator species for the health of ecosystems. While it is not currently threatened, it is important to take steps to protect this species from habitat loss and overcollection. The Greater Butterfly Orchid is a true treasure of the natural world that deserves our attention and protection.

Video

Greater Butterfly Orchids filmed at Augill Pasture Nature Reserve in Cumbria on the 24th June 2024.

Music credits
Way Out West by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org/

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Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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Greater Butterfly Orchid

Contents

Plant Profile

Similar Species

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