Ireland: The Burren NP – Orchids

An astonishing 24 of Ireland’s 28 native orchid species thrive in the Burren National Park. Because limestone is pure calcium carbonate, it creates a highly alkaline environment that is ideal for orchids. Combined with the mild Atlantic air and the deep, sheltered microclimates of the grikes (the vertical cracks in the limestone), the Burren serves as an ideal sanctuary for these delicate northern orchid species. We saw around 6-10 species, with the most profuse bright so-called Irish Orchid aka O’Kelly’s Spotted-Orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii).