Bug Orchid
Height: 15-50cm
Colour: Dark pink, Burgundy
Flowering: April to July
Soil type: Humid Limestone to slightly acidic

This is a tall orchid of dark colour with the flowers and bracts forming a close cylinder. It has an unpleasant odour. The hood remains closed above the main lip which is cut into 3 lobes and curves backward. Behind the flower is a short spur which curves slightly down-wards.
This species is found in pastures of limestone to slightly acidic soils in full sun to an altitude of 2500m. It requires humidity and grows in areas that are damp or under water for part of the year.
Synonyms: Anteriorchis coriophora, Anacamptis coriophora

Similar = Scented Orchid (Orchis fragrans)
Height: 15-50cm
Colour: Pink, White, Green
Flowering: March to June
Soil type: Dry Limestone, tolerates salinity

The scented orchid has a much paler pink to off-white flower often marked with green. The central lobe is frequently longer than the outer two. It bears a sweet vanilla fragrance.
Found in dry limestone soils in full sun on garrigue, scrubland, pastures and woodland clearings to an altitude of 1100m.
Synonyms: Orchis coriophora subspecies fragrans, Orchis cassidea

These images of orchids were taken in Southern Spain, many terrestrial species are widespread from the Iberian peninsular eastwards through the Mediterranean region.

TrackBack URI for this entry

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed

Name

Email

Website

Comment

smaller | bigger

Write the displayed characters

Add Comment