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Anacamptis morio. Orchis bouffon Green winged orchid. Where to find it ? Clic on the map and connect to Orchis sauvage, FFO-Fédération France Orchidées Green winged orchid ( Anacamptis morio ) formerly attached to the genus Orchis is a relatively common and rather early plant (from April to June). The genus is European and well represented in France with very common species such as the pyramidal Anacamptis (Orchis pyramidal) or others more localized mainly in the south of the country. Relatively easy to identify: the stem measures 10 to 30 cm, it is green and turns purple at the level of the inflorescence. The green, unspotted leaves are sometimes inconspicuous but generally bloom from the base. The flowers range from light pink to purple, The sepals and petals are grouped together in the shape of a helmet (like the majority Orchis). The sepals are striped, which will make it easy to differentiate the Jester Orchis from the male Orchis which sometimes shares the same biotope with the same flowering dates. A few meters away, confusion is possible. Click on the photos to enlarge

Orchidee-photo.com : Site de photographie des orchidées sauvages françaises et européennes. Discover orchids, Orchis, Ophrys, Epipactis, Anacamptis, Cephalanthera, Plantanthera. Photographies par Pascal Decologne. 5I8A5247 Décrivez votre image. Non-commercial site: you will never be asked for your personal details or to make any payment on this site. Photos of wild native orchids Discover Orchids from France and Europe by Pascal Decologne. Orchidee-photo.com France : Alpes maritimes, Var, Aude, Aveyron, Lozère, Jura, Queyras, Savoie, Essonne, Seine & Marne, Yvelines, Côte d'Or, Yonne. Sardinia (Italy) Gargano (Italy) Rhodes (Greece) Quick Access: Basics of Orchids Get free high definition files on demand: Order form . Illustrations d'orchidées européennes Orchids of France These orchids are present in France and for the vast majority in other European countries. There are no species of orchids endemic to France, but there are sometimes regional varieties that can be elevated to the rank of subspecies ( Ophrys aymoninii for example). Clic on pictures below to see more. Cypripedium calceolus. Sabot de Venus. Lady's slipper. Updated 07/2025 Serapias neglecta. Serapias négligé. Scarse serapias. Updated 06/2025 Anacamptis morio. Orchis bouffon. Green winged orchid. Updated 08/2023 Anacamptis papilionacea. Orchis papillon. Pink butterfly orchid. Updated 08/2023 Orchis simia. Orchis singe. Monkey orchid. Updated 09/2023 Orchis provincialis. Orchis de Provence. Provence orchid. Updated 09/2023 Traunsteinera globosa. Orchis globuleux. Globe orchid. Updated 09/2023 Gymnadenia corneliana. Nigritelle rose/de Cornelia. Cornelia's gymnadenia. Updated 08/2025 Chamorchis alpina. Orchis nain des Alpes. Alpine dwarf orchid. Updated 07/2025 Epipactis atrorubens. Epipactis pourpre. Dark red helleborine. Updated 10/2023 Epipactis microphylla. Epipactis à petites feuilles. Small leaved helleborine. Updated 10/2023. Neotinea tridentata. Orchis tridenté. Three toothed orchid. Updated 08/2024. Dactylorhiza fuchsii. Orchis de Fuchs. Common spotted orchid. Updated 10/2023 Dactylorhiza majalis. Orchis de Mai. Broad leaved marsh orchid. Updated 08/2025 Cephalanthera longifolia. Cephalanthère à longues feuilles. Sword leaved helleborine. Updated 10/2023 Ophrys apifera. Ophrys abeille. Bee orchid. Updated 08/2025 Ophrys aveyronensis. Ophrys de l'Aveyron. Aveyron orchid. Updated 02/2024. Ophrys passionis/caloptera. Ophrys de la passion. Passion flower orchid. Updated 09/2024 Ophrys splendida. Ophrys splendide. Brilliant orchid. Updated 08/2025. Ophrys fusca. Ophrys brun. Dark bee orchid. Updated 03/2024 Ophrys speculum. Ophrys miroir. Mirror orchid. Updated December 2023 Serapias lingua. Serapias en langue. Tongue orchid. Updated 08/2023 Serapias parviflora. Serapias à petites fleurs. Small flower tongue orchid. Updated 08/2023 Anacamptis longicornu. Orchis à long éperon. Long spurred orchid. Updated 08/2023 Anacamptis pyramidalis. Orchis pyramidal. Pyramidal orchid. Updated 08/2023 Orchis mascula. Orchis mâle. Male orchid. Updated 09/2023 Orchis anthropophora. Orchis homme pendu. Man orchid. Updated 09/2023 Gymnadenia conopsea. Orchis moucheron. Fragrant orchid. Updated 09/2023 Platanthera chlorantha. Platanthère verte. Greater butterfly orchid. Updated 09/2023 Coeloglossum viride. Orchis grenouille. Frog orchid. Updated 08/2024 Epipactis helleborine. Epipactis à larges feuilles. Broad leaved helleborine. Updated 08/2024. Epipactis palustris. Epipactis des marais. Marsh helleborine. Updated 10/2023 Neotinea maculata. Orchis intact. Dense flowered orchid. Updated 10/2023. Dactylorhiza maculata. Orchis maculé/tacheté. Heath spotted orchid. Updated 10/2023 Dactylorhiza praetermissa. Orchis négligé. Southern marsh orchid. Updated 08/2025 Cephalanthera damasonium. Cephalanthère blanche. Large white helleborine. Updated 10/2023 Ophrys scolopax. Ophrys bécasse. Woodcock orchid. Updated 12/2023 Ophrys sphegodes/aranifera. Ophrys araignée. Early spider orchid. Updated 01/2024 Ophrys massiliensis. Ophrys de Marseille. Marseille orchid. Updated 12/2023 Ophrys aurelia. Ophrys d'Aurélien. Bertoloni's bee orchid. Updated 08/2025. Pseudophrys non déterminés Ophrys bombyliflora. Ophrys bombyx. Bumble bee orchid. Updated December 2023 Serapias vomeracea. Serapias à labelle allongé. Long lipped serapias. Updated 06/2025 Spiranthes spiralis. Spiranthe d'automne. Autumn lady's tresses. Updated 08/2023 Anacamptis laxiflora. Orchis à fleurs lâches. Loose-flowered orchid. Updated 09/2023 Orchis purpurea. Orchis pourpre. Purple orchid. Updated 09/2023. Orchis spitzelii. Orchis de Spitzel. Spitzel male orchid. Updated 07/2025 Himantoglossum hircinum. Orchis bouc. Lizard orchid. Updated 09/2023 Gymnadenia odoratissima. Orchis très odorant. Short spurred fragrant orchid. Updated 09/2023 Platanthera bifolia. Platanthère à deux feuilles. Lesser butterfly orchid. Updated 09/2023 Neottia ovata. Listère ovale. Common twayblade. Updated 10/2023 Epipactis muelleri. Epipactis de Müller. Mueller's helleborine. Updated 10/2023 Epipactis purpurata. Epipactis pourpre . Violet helleborine. Updated 08/2025. Neotinea ustulata. Orchis brûlé. Burnt orchid. Updated 08/2025 Dactylorhiza elata. Orchis élevé. Robust marsh orchid. Updated 10/2023 Dactylorhiza sambucina. Orchis sureau. Elder flowered orchid. Updated 10/2023 Ophrys fuciflora. Ophrys frelon. Late spider orchid. Updated 08/2025 Ophrys philippi. Ophrys de Philippe. Philippe's ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys incubacea. Ophrys noir. Dark spider orchid. Updated 01/2024. Ophrys araneola. Ophrys petite araignée. Early spider orchid. Updated 08/2024 Ophrys lutea. Ophrys jaune. Yellow bee orchid. Updated 01/2024 Ophrys insectifera. Ophrys mouche. Fly orchid. Updated 12/2023 Serapias cordigera . Serapias en coeur. Heart flowered serapias. Updated 06/2025 Goodyera repens. Goodyère rampante. Creeping lady's tresses. Updated 08/2023 Anacamptis coriophora fragrans. Orchis parfumé. Bug orchid. Updated 08/2025 Orchis militaris. Orchis militaire. Military orchid. Updated 09/2023 Orchis olbiensis. Orchis d'Hyères. Olbia orchis. Updated 08/2025 Himantoglossum robertianum. Barlie de Robert. Giant orchid. Updated 08/2025 Gymnadenia rhellicani. Orchis vanille. Black vanilla orchid. Updated 09/2023 Pseudorchis albida. Orchis miel. Small white orchid. Updated 10/2023 Neottia nidus-avis. Neottie nid d'oiseau. Bird's nest orchid. Updated 10/2023 Epipactis distans. Epipactis à feuilles distantes. Distant helleborine. Updated 08/2025. Neotinea lactea. Orchis lacté. Milky orchid. Updated 10/2023 Limodorum abortivum. Limodore à feuilles avortées. Violet limodore. Updated 10/2023 Dactylorhiza incarnata. Orchis incarnat. Early marsh orchid. Updated 10/2023 Cephalanthera rubra. Cephalanthère rouge. Red helleborine. Updated 10/2023 Ophrys druentica. Ophrys de la Durance. Durance orchid. Updated 08/2025 Ophrys tenthredinifera. Ophrys guêpe. Sawfly orchid. Updated 02/2024 Ophrys provincialis. Ophrys de Provence. Provence bee orchid Updated 06/2025. Ophrys arachnitiformis. Ophrys en forme d'araignée. False spider orchid. Updated 08/2024. Ophrys lupercalis. Ophrys des lupercales. Dark bee orchid. Ophrys aymoninii. Ophrys d'Aymonin. Fly orchid. Updated December 2023. Orchids of Sardinia Presentation of some endemic species of Sardinia (or mainly present on the island and rarely elsewhere). Click on pictures to access the gallery Ophrys annae. Ophrys d'Anne. Ophrys fuciflora subsp. annae . Updated 09/2024 Ophrys exaltata morisii. Ophrys de Moris. Ophrys x arachnitiformis . Updated 09/2024 Ophrys chestermanii. Ophrys de Chesterman. Ophrys fuciflora subsp. chestermanii . Updated 09/2024 Ophrys fusca iricolor subsp. eleonorae. Ophrys d'Eleonore . Updated 09/2024 Ophrys normanii. Ophrys de Norman. Ophrys tenthredinifera subsp. normanii . Updated 09/2024 Orchis ichnusae. Orchis de Sardaigne. Ophrys mascula subsp. ichnusae . Updated 09/2024 Orchids from Monte Gargano (Pouilles, It) Presentation of some typical species of Monte Gargano. (and not common with the French species presented above). Located in southern Italy, in the Puglia region, at the height of Naples, Monte Gargano is a small massif with mainly limestone soil that juts out into the Adriatic Sea. The lower part to the west attached to the Italian boot is a cultivated plain and the massif to the east is a land of olive trees and semi-dense forest. Its highest point is at 1050 meters (Monte Calvo - Bald Mountain), which installs a relative layering of vegetation from sea level to the summit plateaus and thus allows to observe a great diversity of orchids. The deciduous forest shelters only a few orchids, it will therefore be necessary to look for them on the edges or on the limestone plateaus often particularly bare. The little plant substrate on certain karst limestone slabs does not prevent the development of species of which some abound ( Anacamptis morio and papilionacea in particular). Over a full year, between 70 and 80 species and subspecies of orchids can be observed. Click on the photos to access the orchid species galleries. Orchis quadripunctata. Orchis à 4 points. Four spotted orchid. Updated 09/2024 Dactylorhiza romana. Orchis de Rome. Roman orchid. Updated 09/2024 Ophrys apulica. Ophrys des Pouilles. Ophrys fuciflora subsp. apulica. Updated 09/2024 Orchis italica. Orchis d'Italie. Naked man orchid. Updated 09/2024 Ophrys bertolonii-bertoloniiformis. Ophrys de Bertoloni. Bertoloni's bee orchid. Updated 09/2024 Ophrys parvimaculata. Ophrys à petite macule. Ophrys fuciflora subsp. parvimaculata. Updated 09/2024 Orchis pauciflora. Orchis pauciflore. Sparse flowered orchid. Updated 09/2024 Ophrys biscutella. Ophrys à 2 losanges. Small-mirror ophrys. Updated 09/2024 Ophrys garganica. Ophrys du Gargano. Ophrys sphegodes subsp. passionis . Mise à jour 09/2024 Ophrys promontorii. Promontory Ophrys. Ophrys lunulata subsp. promontorii . Updated 09/2024 Orchids of Rhodes (Greece) Presentation of some typical species from the island of Rhodes (and not shared with the French species presented above). 18 original species to discover Rhodes is a medium-sized Greek island located far from mainland Greece but close to the Turkish coast. It is about 80 km long and up to 40 km wide, with a highest point at 1200 m (Mount Attavyros). The biotopes are relatively varied depending on altitude. Mount Profitis Ilias, near Mount Attavyros, is wooded all the way to the top, while the latter, being higher, is completely barren from around 700 meters of elevation. These two adjoining massifs trap clouds, and the vegetation is denser and greener than in the rest of the island, which experiences frequent wildfires, especially in the central and southern parts. Rhodes is renowned for its orchids, some of which are also found in Crete or Turkey. However, one should not expect high densities outside a few rare spots. During the period I visited (early April), I encountered other species not listed below because they are common in France and do not exhibit island-specific characteristics. Some photos taken on-site will therefore be included in the iconography of French species. These species are visible, sometimes relatively abundant, and in full bloom (unless otherwise noted): Anacamptis pyramidalis (beginning of flowering), Anacamptis coriophora fragrans (beginning of flowering), Anacamptis laxiflora, Anacamptis papilionacea, Anacamptis picta, Limodorum abortivum (not flowering), Orchis provincialis, Orchis italica, Himantoglossum robertianum (end of flowering), Neotinea maculata, Neotinea lactea, Ophrys bombyliflora, Ophrys speculum. Ophrys phryganae and Ophrys sicula can also be found, though they are sometimes difficult to distinguish and are occasionally treated as Ophrys lutea, which is well known elsewhere. With GPS coordinates that eliminate the need for prospecting, one could find around forty species and subspecies during this period. That wasn't my case, but I was able to benefit from information shared by other orchid enthusiasts I met locally to complement my research. I can provide GPS data for a few representative spots I personally observed, for future visitors. Given potential biotope changes (construction, roadwork, fires), it's best to rely on recent data. These coordinates date from April 2025. You can also consult recent 2024 and 2025 field reports from the UK-based tour operator Mariposa. No GPS points, but location indications: 👉 https://www.mariposanature.com/destinations/greece In early April, the climate is pleasant, with temperatures not exceeding 25°C and often much lower (especially at night! — be sure to check if your accommodation has auxiliary heating). I personally experienced many rainy days. Luckily or not, it shows in the photos… In the island’s interior, there are very few gas stations and hardly any places to eat outside the summer season. Even though distances are never very long, it's important to plan ahead. The road network is fairly well maintained, and parking is usually easy without obstructing traffic, as the roads are wide enough. Locals themselves don't hesitate to park partly on the road when stopping. Guides on the orchids of Rhodes are not very up to date and are unavailable new (Orchids Crete & Dodecanese by H. & G. Kretzschmar, The Orchids of Crete and Rhodes by C.A.J. Kreutz). You will therefore need to rely on more general guides (see the “Guides” tab on this site): 👉 https://www.orchidee-photo.com/guides-livres Click on pictures to access the gallery Anacamptis sancta. Orchis saint. Holy orchid. Updated 06/2025 Serapias orientalis. Serapias oriental. Eastern serapias. Updated 06/2025 Serapias bergonii. Serapias de Bergon. Bergoni's serapias. Updated 06/2025 Orchis anatolica. Orchis d'Anatolie. Anatolian orchid. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys cretica ssp beloniae. Ophrys de Belon. Belon's ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys ferrum equinum. Ophrys fer à cheval. Horseshoe ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys mammosa. Ophrys à mamelles. Breasted ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys korae. Ophrys de Coré. Core's ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys reinholdii. Ophrys de Reinhold. Reinhold's ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys regis ferdinandii. Ophrys du Roi Ferdinand. King Ferdinand's ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys omegaifera. Ophrys omega. Omega ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys attaviria. Ophrys attavyros. Attavyros ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys rhodia. Ophrys de Rhodes. Rhodian ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys umbilicata. Ophrys ombilic. Umbilical ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys episcopalis. Ophrys episcopal. Large flowered bee ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys heterochila. Ophrys à labelle différent. Various lips ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys oestrifera. Ophrys taon. Horned bee orchis. Updated 06/2025 Ophrys dodekanensis. Ophrys du Dodecanèse . Dodecanese ophrys. Updated 06/2025 Free orchid illustration photos : The photographs presented are not downloadable but as they are not for sale either, I can provide files on request and free of charge. Tell me the desired views, the required definition and the use you wish to make of them beforehand. Indicate the desired reference in the contact form. Ex: OP/AP 01 (Ophrys apifera 01) which appears in the photo caption.

Ophrys aveyronensis. Ophrys de l'Aveyron The Aveyron Ophrys is a "young" species in the sense that although it has existed for a long time, it has only been described recently. Endemic to Aveyron even if a species in Spain could be related to it (or vice versa?). Its characteristics are close to Ophrys sphegodes/aranifera (spider orchid) but its colors stand out within the family and genetically it would also have a relationship with Ophrys scolopax. Medium-sized but rather solid, it is easily noticed from mid-May to mid-June generally. Petals and sepals are pink (the petals a little darker) but its labellum presents infinite variations which take up the codes of the spider orchids (macules in the shape of H or X) but also speckled designs which make it original. It will of course be found in Aveyron, the north of Herault and sometimes Lozère. Click on the photos to enlarge

Orchis mascula. Orchis mâle. Male orchid. The male Orchis is part of the genus Orchis, largely amputated from many species now classified in the genera Anacamptis or Dactylorhiza. Orchis are tuberous orchids, usually have two which gave them their Greek name Orchis which means testicle. One of the tubers allows the plant to grow while the second forms during this same period and will replace the original tuber which gradually withers the following year. If we were to dig up an orchid (which I of course prohibit), we would therefore find the tuber of the year more or less withered, the tuber in the making for the future season and sometimes an old one totally withered from the previous year. Orchids are fairly tall plants (20 to 60 cm), rather robust and easily spotted in meadows, wastelands or light undergrowth. The preferred soils are generally calcareous or marly and rather dry. The male orchid is of medium size, usually 15 to 30 cm, sometimes up to 50 cm. The stem is relatively thick, the leaves spread on the ground or sheathing and spotted ( but not always and this will therefore not be a distinctive criterion ). The flowers are brightly colored ranging from pink to purple with a white central part speckled with red. Generally, the numerous or not many flowers are grouped and touch each other. The male orchid is found almost everywhere in France, mainly on calcareous soils and up to 2000 meters, which makes it one of the most common orchids in our country. The plant likes cool meadows and roadsides. It flowers from April to the end of June depending on the region and altitude. Identification does not normally pose problems, but in recent years several species have been described that were previously considered to be simple variants of Orchis mascula: Orchis ichnusae (only in Corsica), Orchis olbiensis (only around the Mediterranean), Orchis langei (found in the Pyrenees) in particular. Given the very wide distribution of Orchis male and possible variability, separating these latter species from the "mascula" species may prove very difficult. Click on the photos to enlarge

Découvrez Serapias parviflora. serapias à petites fleurs sur Orchidée-photo.com Serapias neglecta. Serapias négligé. Scarse serapias. Serapias with a Mediterranean distribution. It is a stocky plant with large flowers of variable coloration: light pink, sometimes yellow, bicolored... Click on the photos to enlarge

Notions sur les orchidées de France sur Orchidée-photo.com Notions on European orchids Orchids are "young" plants, and due to the scarcity of fossil evidence, estimating their age of appearance is not easy. Their emergence is therefore placed between 20 and 100 million years ago, while the first flowering plants would have appeared at least 150 million years ago. General Characteristics: They have a single, unbranched, upright stem and a multiple inflorescence. The stems are smooth or fuzzy and bear the leaves. The leaves are veined lengthwise and elongated (except for Goodyera repens, which has more complex leaves). All of the leaves arise from the base to form a rosette or are distributed along the stem. Sometimes, they are reduced to their simplest form and become sheathing. The roots are varied: tubers or rhizomes. In France and Europe, orchids are terrestrial, with roots or tubers remaining underground. The leaves may be permanent or semi-permanent. The stems and flowers only appear for a short flowering period. The flowers exhibit bilateral symmetry, resembling a face (unlike radial symmetry, as in daisies or roses). There are always three sepals (at the back) and three petals (at the front) that make up the perianth, but their arrangement is complex and offers surprising diversity: each species has its own floral organization, and in some cases, even individual flowers can vary in color or shape. Of the three petals, the two lateral ones are identical, but the lower middle one is called the labellum and generally points forward (somewhat like a tongue). Often brightly colored and significantly more structured than the other petals, it indirectly aids in pollination by acting as a "landing strip" for insects. During the formation of the floral bud, the labellum is initially at the top, but as the ovary bearing the flower twists (a phenomenon known as resupination), the labellum appears at the bottom. Exceptionally, some flowers or species do not undergo this resupination. The flower colors are generally red, purple, pink, or white, but there are a few species with yellow flowers. Some flowers may be hypochromatic (partially or almost totally lacking pigmentation), while others may be hyperchromatic with an unusual increase in violet pigments. Habitat: In Europe, orchids are terrestrial with a root system in the soil, unlike tropical orchids, many of which are epiphytic (having aerial roots and living on branches or tree trunks) or lithophytic (living on rock surfaces). The majority of orchid species prefer limestone and often poor soils (calcareous meadows, wastelands, scrubland, pastures grazed by livestock, or road verges). Some species thrive in wet, acidic soils (partially flooded or seepage-prone meadows, edges of reed beds or marshes) or in shaded forest areas. Orchids are not typically found in cultivated fields or overly rich soils, especially those amended with fertilizers, but orchids may appear after a few years of fallow. Reproduction: Orchids are sexually reproductive and, except for rare exceptions, require pollinating insects for reproduction. These insects are sometimes of a single species due to their particular morphology, or they may be of multiple species, which increases the chances of pollination. The pollen of orchids is grouped into small masses that stick to the foreheads of insects, which then transfer it to the female organs of another flower. Very few orchids produce nectar (which typically attracts insects), so colors, shapes, and pheromones play the role of attraction. Some species produce seeds without sexual reproduction. Others propagate vegetatively and produce colonies of "clones" around the parent plant by root development, without excluding traditional reproduction. Critical Life and Reproductive Period: Depending on the species, leaves appear in winter or spring. This is also when habitat maintenance may occur. Many orchids grow in grazed meadows and along the verges of our roads and highways. Only calcareous grasslands, free of tall vegetation that harms the growth and flowering of continental orchids, are ideal for species like Ophrys. The period from February to July is crucial for flowering: plant growth, development of new tubers (formerly and mistakenly called bulbs), or rhizomes occurs through photosynthesis. Cutting leaves can thus hinder plant development for the current year and even for the following one. When a flower stem is cut (mowed, grazed, etc.), only that year's flowering is affected, and the plant does not suffer irreversible damage. Orchids with tubers (e.g., Orchis, Ophrys) develop from this nutritional reserve. Meanwhile, a second (or even more, in exceptional cases) tuber appears and will constitute the plant's reserve for the following year. Once the cycle is complete, the upper part of the plant deteriorates, and flowers, stems, and leaves disappear. Some more woody stems may remain, and in the following spring, these dead stems can be observed next to new ones. From the new tuber, new leaves appear in autumn or early winter and will lead to a new flowering between January and June, depending on the species and geographical location. Thus, even though it is the same individual reappearing each year, it may slightly shift its position to flower a few centimeters further. Orchids thus have the ability to "migrate" and shift slightly from their original tuber. A fertilized flower produces several hundred to several thousand tiny seeds. These lightweight seeds can fall near the parent plant or be carried away and colonize another area. Conditions for a seed to germinate into a new plant are minimal. The seed must be slightly buried and encounter the mycelium of a symbiotic fungus to germinate. The seed has no nutritional reserve, and the fungus provides it with nutrients. It often takes several years for a plant to produce flowers. Increasingly, we see signs along the sides of our roads stating "Late Mowing." This is beneficial for certain grasses but rarely effective for orchids, which develop their seeds over an extended period. Mowing a roadside in May or June (often just before summer break for maintenance teams) does not allow orchids to fully seed. The seed capsules need to dry out, and they only release seeds between June and July. Therefore, mowing should be done after this period. Variability in Species: The size of plants varies greatly, with an orchid of the same species measuring less than 10 cm or growing up to 50 cm. The number of flowers is not constant: the Venus slipper usually carries one flower, sometimes two, while another species might have 10 or 50. The shape of the flowers also shows great variability within a species, but their size tends to be more constant. On the same flower stem, sometimes Ophrys flowers may exhibit different shape characteristics. The flower color is usually constant for a species, but the shade can vary. For Ophrys, the markings on the labellum can vary greatly. One species (Dactylorhiza sambucina) can have flowers that are either purple or yellow, with both colors often coexisting. Why is it so difficult to identify an orchid? Orchids are not very numerous: about 90 species and a total of 160 species and subspecies in France, but the variability from one plant to another can make identification very challenging. Species within the same genus can hybridize, leading to infinite possible combinations, as these hybrids are usually fertile and create new plants that can also hybridize endlessly. It is not always easy to distinguish between genetic diversity and hybridization. Some genera (remember, these are arbitrary classifications created by botanists, and nature doesn't care about our reasoning) can also hybridize between different genera: for example, species from the Anacamptis and Orchis genera. Fortunately, some genera are represented by just one species in our territory (e.g., Cypripedium calceolus) and, despite geographical isolation, populations in Haute-Marne and Côte d'Or have distinct morphologies regardless of the region. Some animal species are younger than our orchids and, due to genetic evolution, are no longer capable of hybridizing, leading one to wonder why plant species haven't developed such genetic barriers. One possible explanation lies in the "awareness" that animal species have in selecting their mates, whereas flowering plants depend on insects, which primarily ensure pollination and "decide" which plants will pair. This results in much more genetic mixing, allowing plants to remain interfertile for much longer periods. Only geographic isolation can enable a group of plants from the same species to evolve rapidly, as new genetic combinations spread quickly. Practically speaking, to identify orchids, guides or websites may be consulted. Botanical excursions and interactions with other enthusiasts can also help improve knowledge. However, it is important to remember that there are few absolute truths, and in the face of highly diverse flowers, one person might classify a specimen as one species, while another may place it in a different one. A strong conviction does not make something true! Some authors may multiply species, creating confusion, while others may take a simpler, more cautious approach by grouping individuals into one species with non-discriminating characteristics. How many orchids are there in France? The different genera with the most common species are listed below. In France, there are 25 genera with about 160 species + subspecies. 13 genera are represented by only one species, often rare to very rare. 10 genera are represented by 3 to 50 species. The validity of certain species is debated; some may only be subspecies, regional varieties, or geographically isolated populations with different flowering times. In principle, a species is defined by its genetic isolation and lack of natural hybridization with others. At the European level, many species within the same genus spontaneously hybridize, and even different genera can hybridize, leading to legitimate questions about whether we should name an orchid as soon as it exhibits morphological differences or a shifted flowering time. This site does not aim to fuel such debates, but will adhere closely to the most current nomenclature to avoid confusing the reader in their research and identification of species. Genus Orchis (Orchis militaris, Orchis purpurea, Orchis simia, Orchis anthropophora, Orchis mascula). About 10 species in France. Genus Ophrys (Ophrys apifera, Ophrys araneola, Ophrys aranifera/sphegodes, Ophrys fuciflora, Ophrys insectifera, Ophrys scolopax). About 13 species, but many subspecies in France. From common to very rare, with many species often being regional variations. Genus Dactylorhiza (Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Dactylorhiza maculata, Dactylorhiza incarnata, Dactylorhiza sambucina, Dactylorhiza viridis - formerly Coeloglossum viride). About 5 species in France but a total of over 30 species + subspecies. From common to rare. Genus Epipactis (Epipactis atrorubens, Epipactis helleborine, Epipactis muelleri). 10 species and a little more than 20 species + subspecies, from common to rare and regional. Genus Anacamptis (Anacamptis pyramidalis, Anacamptis morio). About 7 species in France, but double that number in species + subspecies. Common in almost all regions. Genus Serapias (Serapias lingua, Serapias vomeracea). About 8 species, more or less rare and localized. Genus Cephalanthera (Cephalanthera damasonium, Cephalanthera longifolia, Cephalanthera rubra). 3 species, generally common but sometimes regional. Genus Gymnadenia (Gymnadenia conopsea, Gymnadenia rhellicani). 8 species in France, more or less rare and localized. Genus Platanthera (Platanthera bifolia, Platanthera chlorantha). 3 species in France. Common and widespread for the species mentioned. Genus Neotinea (Neotinea maculata, Neotinea ustulata, Neotinea tridentata, Neotinea lactae). About 6 species, more or less rare or localized. Genus Himantoglossum (Himantoglossum hircinum, Himantoglossum robertanium). 2 common species, one of which is localized. Genus Neottia (formerly Listera ovata, Listera cordata, and Neottia nidus-avis). 3 species, including 1 common and 1 regional. Genus Spiranthes (Spiranthes spiralis). 2 rare species but geographically widespread. Genus Limodorum (Limodorum abortivum). 2 species, one common and one regional. Genus Cypripedium (Cypripedium calceolus = Venus’s slipper). Only 1 species in France. Rare and localized. Genus Goodyera (Goodyera repens). 1 common species. Genus Herminium (Herminium monorchis). Only 1 species in France. Rare and localized. Genus Epipogium (Epipogium aphyllum). 1 rare species. Genus Liparis (Liparis loeselii). 1 rare species. Genus Corallorhiza (Corallorhiza trifida). 1 rare species. Genus Hammarbya (Hammarbya paludosa). 1 rare species. Genus Gennaria (Gennaria diphylla). Only 1 species in France. Extremely rare (Corsica). Genus Chamorchis (Chamorchis alpina). Only 1 species in France. Rare and localized. Genus Traunsteinera (Traunsteinera globosa). Only 1 species in France. Rare and localized. Genus Pseudorchis (Pseudorchis albida). Only 1 species in France. Uncommon and moderately widespread. General Information about Ophrys: Ophrys are jewels of elegance among European orchids. The plants have an average height (usually 10 to 30 cm), but can occasionally reach 70 to 80 cm (Personal observation of Ophrys apifera and Ophrys insectifera). The flowers are small, barely the size of a fingernail, non-nectariferous, and appear to have very little pollen: two pollinia that aggregate the entire pollen. The flowers are few in number: often between 10 and 15. The labellum (the forward petal) is particularly developed and complex. Normally convex, it gives the impression of a full shape, but it is actually a fine, curved petal adorned with more or less marked lateral swellings, most often hairy. The labellum is colored on the front, but on the back, it usually remains a solid whitish to beige color. It is often slightly tilted and forms an angle with the other petals, making it more visible to flying insects... and to orchid hunters! Each species of Ophrys has its own petal and sepal colorations, labellum shapes, and patterns on these labella. However, there are infinite variations that can complicate identification, and hybridizations are always possible... So, it often leads to discussions about whether one is dealing with a species, a subspecies, or a regional variety. It is often said that Ophrys "mimic" insects, which is why their old vernacular names include Ophrys abeille (bee orchid), Ophrys guêpe (wasp orchid), Ophrys mouche (fly orchid), etc. This "resemblance" is believed to attract male insects that attempt to mate with these apparent females and, in doing so, transfer pollen while moving from flower to flower, ensuring pollination. This is, if not a folly, at least far from the truth, as insects are quite adept at recognizing their potential mates visually and do not attempt to mate with females of a different species. It is primarily the pheromones secreted by Ophrys that attract and deceive them. An evolutionary process has allowed insects and Ophrys to slowly form a pollinator relationship: often, each Ophrys is pollinated by only one or two species of hymenopterans... and the flowers of Ophrys do not resemble their pollinators at all! Neither the shape nor the patterns of the labellum are similar! Nor, to a large extent, is the size. What is certain is that male hymenopterans are deceived when they land on the labellum. Intoxicated by the pheromones and likely reassured by the hairiness of the labellum, they attempt to copulate with it and end up with one or both sticky pollinia, usually on their forehead. If they quickly realize the trick, they often attempt another mating with another flower, more or less nearby. In the meantime, the pollinium has shifted, and during this new attempt, it pollinates the female organs of the orchid. If the insect gets tired of being deceived, it may change flower species for a true pollen source or simply find a real mate of its own species! There is thus a high risk that all the pollen is lost for reproduction! The flowers on an orchid plant are rarely all fertilized. Some Ophrys are called pseudophrys and show slight morphological differences. They are pollinated by their own hymenopterans, which try to mate in an inverted position, turning their back on the pollinia. These then stick to their back or the tip of their abdomen. By visiting another Ophrys flower, still in the same position, they also ensure fertilization. It is difficult to know if it is the Ophrys species that induces the position of its pollinator or if the pollinator adopts a more natural position for its own species. Ophrys are often plants that favor calcareous and dry soils, more or less grassy. They thrive in fallow land and scrublands but not in forests or overly shaded areas. Like Orchis, their roots are tuberous. However, I have observed Ophrys apifera for several consecutive years in a location of Dactylorhiza elata, with their roots submerged in a generous spring, likely for a large part of the year (Personal observation: La Bastide Pradines, Aveyron). The Diversity of Flowers in Orchids: A single species can present multiple appearances, which can be puzzling. Ophrys aranifera . At the place called "Le Buisson Pouilleux" (Essonne). On about 200 m2, an inventory of the spider Ophrys photographed over 2 days shows the diversity of the flowers of this species. One could legitimately wonder if it is the same species in view of certain morphological differences and yet this is indeed the case in the current state of our knowledge. These variations are frequent in orchids and do not facilitate their identification when they do not lead to the multiplication of species for certain specialists. It is therefore important to keep a sense of proportion when discovering an atypical orchid and not to imagine that it is a new species in order not to multiply the taxa unnecessarily. A species is generally created from the geographical isolation of a population of orchids. Over the millennia, certain characteristics will diverge and the isolation will lead to an exacerbation of some of them: the size, the color, the shape of the labellum in particular. It can also be an adaptation to the environment with a more or less humid biotope, more or less acidic compared to the original species. The flowering dates also shift... A species will also strengthen its own characteristics if the pollinating insect(s) are unique and will not visit other orchid species. There will therefore be no hybridization and the characteristics will therefore develop more easily and quickly.

Ophrys tenthredinifera. Ophrys guêpe. Sawfly orchid. A beautiful Ophrys! Very colorful with pretty shapes, it can be found in some southern departments in April. (Aude, Pyrénées orientales, Gers, Vaucluse and Corsica). It is not a common orchid in France and Italy or Spain host much larger populations. Its label, however, presents a very large variety of colors and shapes, so we will judge on the overall appearance of the flower to validate the species. The appendage (at the bottom and in the center of the labellum) is often very upturned and topped with quite visible developed hair. Click on the photos to enlarge

Orchis simia. Orchis singe. Monkey orchid The Monkey Orchid is part of the genus Orchis, largely amputated from many species now classified in the genera Anacamptis or Dactylorhiza. Orchis are tuberous orchids, usually having two which gave them their Greek name Orchis which means testicle. One of the tubers allows the growth of the plant while the second forms during this same period and will replace the original tuber gradually withered the following year. If we were to dig up an orchid (which I of course prohibit), we would therefore find the tuber of the year more or less withered, the tuber in the making for the future season and sometimes an old one totally withered from the previous year. Orchids are fairly tall plants (20 to 60 cm), rather robust and easily spotted in meadows, wastelands or light undergrowth. The preferred soils are generally calcareous or marly and rather dry. The sepals and lateral petals are united to form a "helmet" while the central petal (labellum) offers a fairly complex shape that varies from one species to another. Three Orchis are quite close morphologically and "coloristically": Orchis militaris (Military Orchis), Orchis purpurea (Purple Orchis) and Orchis simia (Monkey Orchis). Hybridizations are therefore possible that will not allow a certain identification. From a distance, it may be confused with the Military Orchid, but its flowers have a very distinctive labellum that is very cut out and that is likened to a human or simian shape: long, thin arms and legs and even a hanging penis. Its helmet and labellum are strongly tinted with white, but the "limbs" are themselves colored. Special feature: it is one of the rare orchids to start flowering from the top of the inflorescence. Finally, it is its reputation because most often, it is the whole inflorescence that flowers at the same time: you therefore have to be there at the right time to see its flowers (from the end of April to mid-June). We will therefore find it vaguely reminiscent of a bottle brush with its cylindrical structure. A shape preserved in the majority of hybrids for which it is a parent. Sometimes hybridizing with Orchis militaris or Orchis purpurea, it is especially with Orchis anthrophora that we will find original shapes and colorings. As the two species have a similar labellum in shape, it is especially the colorings that make these hybrids interesting. Click on the photos to enlarge

Ophrys lutea. Ophrys jaune. Yellow bee orchid Ophrys from the Mediterranean region, this Ophrys poses few identification problems due to its labellum largely edged with yellow. Petals and sepals are also a pronounced yellow, washed with green most often. In addition, it offers little variability. It is found in the south and southwest of France (1 subspecies in Corsica) on fairly dry land: wasteland, scrubland mainly. Measuring from 15 to 30 cm, the stem bears a few flowers which bloom from the end of March to the beginning of June depending on the region. Click on the photos to enlarge

Platanthera bifolia. Platanthère à deux feuilles. Lesser butterfly orchid. Almost as widespread as Planthera chlorantha, this orchid can be found from sea level (but not from Brittany to Pas de Calais) up to 2000 meters. It grows in open meadows and in shaded areas from the end of April to July for high altitude locations. In metropolitan France, we also find Platanthera chlorantha. Differentiating the two is not easy from a morphological point of view: from 20 to 60 cm, the same shades and similar leaves. It will therefore be necessary to approach it closely and observe the inside of the flower. The anthers are distant and trapezoidal in shape for chlorantha and tight and parallel for bifolia. The first views of these two species will therefore illustrate this point. Click on the photos to enlarge

Dactylorhiza sambucina. Orchis sureau. Elder flowered orchid. Some Dactylorhiza will be difficult to identify because each species varies and hybrids are common. In some regions, these hybrids are more numerous than the type species. Observing Dactylorhiza is proof that once again, some specialists tend to segment and name what are sometimes only varieties. Evolution is certainly underway, but it will not happen on the scale of current humanity. Patience! I will therefore only present a few species, those whose identification remains certain. Dactylorhiza sambucina is a stocky plant that can be found on damp but not soggy substrates, neutral to slightly acidic. It can also be found at altitude, between 500 and 1500 meters. While usually, we tend to name each variation, for this species which has the particularity of having yellowish or reddish flowers, the consensus which consists of keeping a single name prevails although we can observe subtle morphological differences between the two varieties. Sometimes one color largely prevails in a station of Elderberry Orchid but in principle we will almost systematically find the two together in proportions that can vary. This cohabitation allows for rapid identification. Possible confusion with Orchis provincialis for the yellow variety. But O provincialis is more slender with more spaced flowers. The presence of bracts (floral parts resembling leaves and scattered in the inflorescence of the Elderberry Orchid is also an element of differentiation. These bracts are green when the flower is yellow and purple when it is red. Possible confusion with Orchis mascula for the red variety and it is also the bracts that will allow them to be identified because they are not very visible in O mascula . The latter often has spotted leaves starting from the base and D sambucina has leaves without spots and some of which are on the stem. The inflorescence is more compact, compact in D Sambucina and more slender in O mascula . The pigmentation in the center of the labellum is very variable, present or not and does not constitute a reliable criterion. The labellum is sometimes folded and sometimes spread out and quite wide, it is therefore not a very convincing element. Click on the photos to enlarge

Anacamptis coriophora subsp . fragrans. Anteriorchis coriophora . Orchis parfumé. Bug orchid. (Pollini) Floraison 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 Where to find it ? Clic on the map and connect to Orchis sauvage, FFO-Fédération France Orchidées If Anacamptis coriophora (the Bug Orchid) is both robust and malodorous, Anacamptis coriophora subsp. fragrans (the Fragrant Orchid) is noticeably more delicate and has a suave yet discreet scent. The flowers are small and close to the spike, attractively coloured and speckled. The plant most often reaches about twenty centimetres in height. Click on the photos to enlarge