Kenfig National Nature Reserve is famous for Orchids – 18 species have been recorded on the Reserve, some of them very rare.
Orchids grow in soil that has not been disturbed over a long period, and require low nutrient levels to prevent them from being smothered by more vigorous grasses and other plants. Most orchid species grow in close association with specific fungi in the soil. These fungi help the tiny seeds to germinate, and also exchange nutrients with the orchid plant.
The wide range of habitats at Kenfig enables many different species to grow. In the damp ‘dune slacks’, species such as the Marsh Helleborine and the very rare Fen Orchid are found. The Fen Orchid is difficult to spot, being very small with green flowers, and is found at Kenfig and at only one other site in Wales. Species such as Early Purple, Green winged, Early and Southern Marsh Orchid are also found in the slacks. Pyramidal Orchid and Bee Orchid are found in drier grasslands – in fact Bee Orchids can usually be seen in the grassy areas by the Car Park. In wooded areas, Helleborine and Common Twayblade Orchids may be found.
The species illustrated are those you may see at this time of year.
