FLORA OF ICELAND elements: Platanthera hyperborea, Northern Green Orchid, Friggjargras

Platanthera hyperborea; the northern green orchid is a quite common orchid of fertile heath land and grassy slopes. It can easily be confused with the small white orchid (Pseudorchis albida). Ps. albida has a lower lip with three lobes whereas Pl. hyperborea has an entire lip pointing straight downwards. At first glance the small-white orchid is also more slender than the northern green orchid. The two species can be found in similar habitats
They are member of the orchid family (Orchidaceae). The Icelandic name of this species is Friggjargras.
In the background of this photo Bartsia alpina can be seen.