Question: This plant grows in the woods at Ledge Pond, NH. Last year I got to see it in bloom (early …
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Question
This plant grows in the woods at Ledge Pond, NH. Last year I got to see it in bloom (early August) and still couldn't clearly identify it. Is it indeed Epipactis helleborine? I am a native plant enthusiast so should I remove it is so? It does not appear to be spreading.
Answer
Dear missyfabel, yes, your plant is Epipactis helleborine (helleborine orchid). While non-native, it is not invasive and may be used by native pollinators. This orchid has become more common in New England in the recent decades, but it does not crowd out other vegetation.
