Wild orchids not usually found as far north as Cumbria, has been identified on a Kendal roundabout. The southern marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza praetermissa) and bee orchid (Ophrys apifera) have been recorded on the Shenstone traffic island on the outskirts of town. It is thought that the seeds are being dispersed by passing cars as more specimens have been found beside the dual carriageway at Greenodd, near Ulverston, but it is unusual to find them this far north which is limit of their usual geographic range. The heavy limestone content of the soil in South Cumbria will have been a key factor in aiding their presence.
Wild orchids found on Kendal roundabout
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