Superb summer orchid with a generally very dark purple color. The floral elements of Epipactis are complex and sometimes very colorful. But the flowering of the majority of species is often late (from June to August) and for many species takes place in the undergrowth. They are therefore not very noticeable at this relatively late time.

New species are discovered (or named) regularly in Europe. The genus Epipactis is also very widespread in the northern hemisphere. Species hybridize easily within the genus, which will sometimes complicate identification.

For Epipactis atrorubens, no worries, the stem is generally tall and bears a cluster of many flowers ranging from slightly faded red to intense purple. The labellum is wrinkled as you will see in the photos.

It can be seen on the edge of woods, along roadsides, on rather dry and calcareous ground. Widespread in France in the eastern half and the South (and very rarely in the West and the Center).

 

In Epipactis, the labellum is divided into two parts: the hypochile, concave, contains more or less nectar, which gives it a shiny appearance, and the epichile, often pointed, sometimes folded, with a complex appearance, rarely smooth and covered with bumps, hollows or furrows that allow insects to cling while they draw nectar. Petals and sepals are generally of the same color, more or less greenish. The pollinia, once stuck on the head of the insect, slowly disintegrate, which allows several flowers to be fertilized.