Epipactis helleborine (L.) Crantz – the first (semi)ruderal orchid species of Central Europe

In contrast to the majority of the Central European orchids, Epipactis helleborine (L.) Crantz not only maintained its area during the last century but has even achieved a remarkable extension. During the investigation of 200 Northrhine‐Westphalian villages it was met in 13% (26) of the villages. 40% of its habitats were clearly ruderal, the rest could be identified as moderate to fairly ruderal. Obviously E. helleborine meanwhile has become the first ruderal orchid of central Europe. The question why this species, in contrast to all other orchids, is able to colonise ruderal habitats is worthwhile to be treated by detailed investigations. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)