Neottia ovata (syn: Listera ovata); The common twayblade is a rather rare orchid species. It is a plant which can quickly be overlooked though, as it blends into the background. It is a fairly large orchid, up to 60cm tall.
Like the more common Lesser Twayblade (Neottia cordata) it has only two opposite basal (ovate-shaped) leaves. They are much larger though (6-12cm vs. 2cm).
The flowers are greenish colored with a long lower lip which is split into two lobes at the bottom.
It grows as an undergrowth species in birch forests and other shady places. It can be found in different localities around the low land regions.
It is a member of the Orchid family (Orchidaceae). The Icelandic name of this species is Eggtvíblaðka.
FLORA OF ICELAND elements: Neottia ovata, Common Twayblade
A brief introduction to Iceland plants
Text & Photographs by Dick Vuijk
- unless stated otherwise
Text & Photographs by Dick Vuijk
- unless stated otherwise
Other orchids
Other orchids