Broad-Leaved Helleborine

Observed in Meerdaalwoud, close to a pond in July 2011. Is a land orchid with fleshy rhizomes and creeping shoots. It sprouts a stalk in spring/summer annual of about 20-70 cm in length. They have 4 to 8 leaves lanceolate, alternate, taking place on shorter and shorter until near the end of the stem. The inflorescence cluster consists of bilateral symmetrical flowers with attractive color. The 3 sepals and 2 lateral petals are oval and acuminate. Its color can vary from whitish green to deep green with purple spots or purple. The lip outer surface of a green-white and streaked with dark veins. Yellowish-white epichilo. The ovary is inferior. It produces a dry capsule with countless tiny seeds.