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Ghost Orchid (Epipogium aphyllum) HEIGHT to 15cm. Pinkish-yellow saprophyte that grows in deep shade under beech. Despite its rather unassuming appearance, it is something of a holy grail for botanists. Known from just a few sites, mainly in the Chilterns, it does not appear every year, and indeed has not been seen since the 1980s. Furthermore, Ghost Orchids can appear at any time from June to September and seldom last more than a few days, often being consumed by slugs. Count yourself extremely lucky if you see one.
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- © PAUL STERRY/Nature Photographers
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