Epipactis helleborine

var. albifolia

Broad-leaved helleborine (chlorophyll free variety)

Photographed Glamorgan, 6 August 2006

Image number ehell alb1815

The spiral leaf pattern and the width of the lower leaves are the easiest distinguishing features for this species. This specimen has no appreciable amount of chlorophyll so must be obtaining its carbon and nitrogen, via an ectomycorrhizal fungus, from the nearby Birch trees.