Broad Leaved Helleborine ‘Dutch’ form (E. Helleborine f. Neerlandica) growing in the creeping willow of a dune slack at Kenfig July 16th 2017. Only UK site for this form, which is more common in mainland Europe.
Claimed by some European authorities to be a separate species, in the UK this is a considered a form of Broad Leaved Helleborine. It derives its Dutch name due to it existing mainly in Northern Europe. In fact the small colony at Kenfig may be the only UK location for this lovely form.
Recognised by a combination of factors It is generally shorter than average, with stocky leaves wrapped around the stem. Close examination shows uneven serrations along the leaf edges. The flowers are generally dark, with sepals and petals opening less widely than on typical Broad Leaved Helleborines. This form grows in dune slacks often close to or among creeping willow, making it difficult to find.