D. viridis itself was first described by Hartman from Koenigsberg, Germany in 1753 and its name refers
to the overall bland, greenish appearance of the plant. Until quite recently this species was the single European member of the genus Coeloglossum but molecular analysis has now determined that the species is more correctly positioned with the genus Dactylorhiza and accordingly, Coeloglossum has now been subsumed by that genus.
D. viridis is a widespread but highly localised orchid wtih a circumboreal distribution throughout most
of Europe - nowhere is it particularly common. Its choice of habitat is extremely varied and the species
can be found in dry or wet conditions, in full sun or shade and on alkaline or acid substrates. Although it
may occur at high altitudes throughout its distribution, in the south of it is range it is fairly well confined to montane grasslands and light woodland. D. viridis can tolerate altitudes up to nearly 3000 metres and is
perfectly at home growing alongside more specialized Alpine orchids such as G. rhellicani and G. albida.
This species cannot be described as a beauty and despite a degree of variability, this species is unlikely to
be confused with any other. D. viridis is a predominantly green plant with flowers that can be similarly
coloured or exhibit shades of brown, red or olive. Several variants have been described but these are of
little evolutionary importance. The most easily recognized of the named variants is longibracteatum which
as its name suggests possesses lengthy bracts and is also taller and more sturdy than var viridis. Its
precise status and distribution is not really known. The photo's here are from the Ecrin National Park
in the French Alps where it was also possible to find specimens closer to var viridis albeit sturdier ( see
D. viridis page on this site ).
