Native and alien poplar plantations are important habitats for terrestrial orchids

Poplar monocultures are some of the most common short-rotation coppices. While they often considered low environmental value, have recently gained recognition for their multifaceted role in ecological engineering, such as carbon sinks, soil remediators or green energy producers. Nonetheless, biodiversity poplar plantations remains little known and largely overlooked. Here we conducted a systematic botanical survey 232 within Pannonian ecoregion (central Europe) order to assess plant diversity, with particular focus on terrestrial orchids. Our results highlight that almost 60% harbour orchids, several thousand specimens. Overall, documented occurrence 15 species orchids surveyed plantations, including taxa limited distributions threatened conservation status. For instance, report numerous new populations Epipactis bugacenis E. tallosii suggesting majority these occur Hungary. We analysed chemistry plantation characteristics predict richness monocultures. The probability being present is highest older larger characterized by high total organic matter content pH. conclude native alien valuable communities, other vascular plants significant importance. Using knowledge generated here, recommend delaying partial harvest increase potential.