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Ophrys passionis. Ophrys de la passion. An orchid of the aranifera section. It is therefore quite close to the much more common spider orchid. The petals are in principle quite wide and purple in color (entirely or at the margin). The basal field is very dark and more so than the labellum, which gives a second criterion since in O. aranifera, this field is lighter or concolorous. O. passionis flowers at the same time as O. aranifera, which leads to hybrids. It is present in far fewer departments in the south and west of France. Click on the photos to enlarge

Ophrys arachnitiformis. Ophrys en forme d'araignée. False spider orchid. Ophrys arachnitiformis is one of the species that is not always easy to identify, especially since the authors of guides (as well as many pseudo-specialists) do not always have the same definition, consider that the geographical distribution differs, or do not present similar illustrations. It must be considered as a subspecies of Ophrys sphegodes from the Mediterranean rim with a rather early flowering. The sepals and petals are white to pink with a medium-sized labellum. As sometimes, everything is a matter of conviction but not always of convincing scientific elements, we must therefore remain cautious and for my part, I deliver this description and these views with all reserve in the hope of a finally settled debate and a precise diagnosis for the future. Click on the photos to enlarge

Selection of books and guides on orchids from France and Europe. Below you will find a selection of books and guides related to orchids. For each book, the main data are mentioned as well as the availability (without guarantee) from booksellers or from the publisher. The books presented are recent and can be easily found new or used. Only the links to the publisher are activated when the book is still available on its site. Orchid guides France Orchid guides France regions Orchid Guides Europe Orchid guides Europe countries Complementary orchid books Artistic Orchid Books France guides Orchids from France, Belgium and Luxembourg. (Collective of authors under the aegis of the French Orchid Society) Biotope Editions . 500 pages. 17x24 format and weight not very compatible (1500 g) as a field guide. Published 2005, second edition. Publisher price €45. Ean code 9782914817110 The best book on French Orchids: presents each species with the identification keys. The iconographic base remains summary (2 to 3 views) and will be the only notable flaw of this guide. The introductory part of almost 150 pages is without a doubt the best documented of the current guides and is almost worth buying the book on its own. A distribution map by department and criterion/color (Common, localized, rare, disappeared, absent) will prove very useful for directing your research. Random distribution, publisher break. Available on the FFO website. New version coming in 2025... in principle. Guide to orchids in France, Switzerland and the Benelux. (Pierre Delforge) Editions Delachaux and Niestlé . 350 pages. 13x20 format, almost practical as a field guide. Weight 800 g. Published in 2021, 3rd revised and expanded edition. Publisher price €29.90. Ean code 9782603027820 An introductory part of about thirty pages. A few identification keys embellish this book which suffers from insufficient iconography (2 views per species most often). The descriptive part, although very useful, could be more complete if the author limited the supporting elements of nomenclature or taxonomy which are otherwise subjects of discord with regard to him and which sometimes take up too much of the pagination. The distribution maps are intended to be very precise but the scale proposed does not allow to locate a place sought on these maps and even less to validate the certain, probable or uncertain presence of a species via its geographical presence. This apparent precision is therefore not of great help for the determination of a taxon. Its size and weight (800 g all the same...) allow you to take it with you, but taking it out of your bag to identify an orchid in the field seems time-consuming and often doomed to failure. It is better to photograph as much as possible the orchid encountered (entire plant, flower from several angles) and look at all this calmly on your return. Failure to respect the current (official) nomenclature could waste the neophyte's time. The strong points lie in the quality of the descriptions and, even with the reservations expressed, the considerable scientific background of the work. Available Petits formats et petits prix mais vont dans la poche ou le sac à dos ! Guide to common orchids of France by F Jouandoudet (Editions Sud-ouest) 60 p. 35 species, so probably not enough, but it can be a start. Description and cartography are nevertheless strong points of this mini guide that you can easily take with you. Random availability out of stock publisher. Guide to the orchids of France . Find and recognize them. (Editions Sud-ouest). 116 p. €8.50. Same author and same publisher for a more erudite book: 57 species described, still presence maps and a proposal of 32 botanical itineraries. To be preferred to the previous one given the low price. Random availability out of stock publisher. Wild orchids (Editions Debaisieux) 132 p. 14 €. EAN code 9782913381841. 70 species described and illustrated with one to three photos. Cartography. Format and weight compatible to take on a walk. Do not trust the stickers (In Aveyron, or Tarn etc..., it is always the same work). Random availability through local distributors (newsagents, supermarkets). Guide to orchids in France by F Dusak, P Lebas, P Pernot ( Editions Belin ) 224 p. Format 11x21. €16.95. Ean code 9782701146812. An almost exhaustive review of native orchids. The perfect guide to get started and take on a walk. Descriptions, flowering dates, identification tips and distribution maps or, failing that, indication of the regions of presence. Available. Reissued work with new cover Les ouvrages coup de coeur ! Guide to wild orchids of France . Life size. (Rémy Souche) Editions Les créations du Pélican/Vilo. 340 pages. Format 23x31. Paperback. Published in 2004. Publisher price €47. EAN code 9782719106426. This is probably not the best organized book for species identification (entries in the book are by the French vernacular name) but everything is there nevertheless and sometimes in large format: descriptions, quite numerous photos, presence by region thanks to maps. It can also be criticized for not respecting the nomenclature for certain species. Rémy Souche is sometimes more passionate than scientific, but as an erudite botanist, he gives us a superb work full of information, particularly on the history of ancient orchidology. Hard to find new but available second-hand. Up Les guides France régionaux Discovering the wild orchids of Rhône-Alpes . 2nd edition Collective of authors. Paperback. €30. Format 17x24. EAN code: 9782366622003 Biotope Editions A book that combines all the qualities that one can expect: description of species, distribution maps and even discovery routes via a separate booklet. The only criticism that can be made concerns the iconography which is a little limited to 2 or 3 views per species. Available. Discovering Orchids in Languedoc and Catalan country. Collective of authors. Paperback. €30. 370 pages, 17x24 format. EAN code: 9782366622225 Biotope Editions A work that combines all the qualities that one can expect: description of species, identification keys, distribution maps and even 22 discovery routes. The only criticism that one can make concerns the iconography a little limited to 2 or 3 views per species. Available. Discovering the Orchids of Alsace and Lorraine. Collective of authors. Paperback. €30. 380 pages, 17x24 format. EAN code: 9782366621716 Biotope Editions A book that combines all the qualities that one can expect: description of species, identification keys, distribution maps and even 18 discovery routes. The number of species presented being less numerous than in the other regional guides at Biotope, a larger place is devoted to iconography. Available. Wild orchids of Ile de France. François Dusak and Pascal Pernot. Paperback. €30. 210 pages, 17x24 format. EAN code: 9782951037946 Biotope Editions The Ile de France is probably not the most prolific region in France in terms of orchid species, but one is surprised when reading the book to note that despite the galloping urbanization, pockets of nature shelter many unexpected species. The scientific part is pleasantly developed and the species are presented with a description, distribution map and 3 to 4 views per taxon. Not available in bookstores but available at the FFO boutique Up Guides to European orchids Discovery guide to European & Mediterranean Orchids (Kuhn R, Pedersen H & Cribb Ph) Editions Biotope . 430 pages. Paperback. EAN code: 9782366622461. 16x24 format and weight not very compatible (1100 g) for a field guide. Publication 1st half of 2020 in French version, original version 2019. NB: New edition in English 2024 by another publisher. Publisher price €39. Ean code 9782366622461 Superb work by a collective of authors. The edition presents 300 species with 2000 illustrations, which makes it the reference work currently for visual identifications. The respect of the nomenclature currently in force makes it a solid basis for naming correctly each species. Since all French species are represented, it can also be used for the national orchid flora. The introductory part and generalities on orchids (30 pages) will however be insufficient for a complete knowledge of this floral family. The cards distribution taking into account the scale treated remain summary but can prove useful. The ultra-optimized layout does not make it a pleasant work at first but its qualities are in the informative richness. Available Orchids of Europe, North Africa and the Near East . (Delforge P) Editions Delachaux et Niestlé . 540 pages. 14.5x20 format and very limited weight (1100 g) for a field guide. Published in 2016, 4th revised and expanded edition. Publisher's price €39 Ean code 9782603024072 Long a reference work due to its exhaustiveness on species: more than 600! The author unfortunately adopts certain personal biases by multiplying their number precisely, which will not make the task easy for neophytes. Last downside since the iconographic base is only 2 to 3 views per species. The introductory part of less than 30 pages will only give bases for the knowledge of orchids but keys of determination inside the edition will usefully complete this first part. No distribution maps but only the indication of the country, which turns out to be clearly insufficient: the presence by country of a species will be of little use to help with the determination. Available. Up Orchids of Europe by country. Orchid of Italy. Guide to spontaneous orchids. Third edition. In Italian Collective of authors under the aegis of Giros (Gruppo italiano per la ricerca sulle Orchidee Spontanee) Publisher Ilcastelloeditore. €35. Paperback. Format 17x24. 480 pages. EAN code: 9788827604472 267 taxa presented after a reduced introduction compared to the previous edition. The book presents above all the species with a distribution map, the flowering periods, the description of use and according to the species, from 2 to 10 photos. Available locally or on Amazon.it Atlas of the Greek orchids. 2 volumes. in English Spyros Tsiftsis. Zissis Antonopoulos. Mediterraneo editions . €140. Hardcover. 1000 pages. 15x21 format. 2 complete works, superbly done on the orchids of Greece. The descriptions are basic but the iconography is rich. There are distribution maps as well as flowering periods. The price is high and it is still better to order it from the publisher but there are few works of this quality on the whole of the Greek islands. Available. Up Additional works to find out more. Orchids of Europe. Flowers and pollination. Accessible scientific work and wealth of knowledge on orchid pollination and floral parts. The genres are discussed without detailing each species, so it will not be a tool for identifying or having a complete overview of the species. The book is full of photos and sketches as well as statistical tables on pollinators in particular. Maybe not essential but fascinating nonetheless. 450 pages. Hardcover, 24x30 format. Biotope Editions . 65 € EAN code: 9782366621778 Available Atlas of orchids of France. An almost essential complement to the Guide to Orchids of France published by Biotope above, you will find this book from the same publisher, which maps out fairly precisely on a map of France the possible meeting places of our national orchids: description of the biotopes for each species and presence maps. 400 pages. Hardcover, 21x30 format. Editions Biotope . €40 (€20 from the publisher) EAN code: 9782914817622 Available. Italian Ophrys. Rémy Souche, Rolando Romolini and watercolors by Lorenzo Dotti. Self-published 2012. €65 + €15 postage. 580 pages. 23x23 format. Hardcover. Ean code 9782918075028. The book is bilingual French/Italian. A richly illustrated panorama with numerous views by species allows to grasp all the richness of Italian Ophrys. The introduction is as always with R Souche (and R Romolini) erudite with numerous historical entries. Some plates reproducing watercolors by Lorenzo Dotti give another point of view on orchids. Magnificent! Available from the author Rémy Souche, ophrysdefrance@orange.fr 7 Route des Cévennes 34380 Saint-Martin-de-Londres 06 20 30 35 27 Ophrys of France. (and Catalonia) Rémy Souche. Watercolors by Marianne Fabre. Self-published 2021. €65 + €15 postage. 600 pages. 23x23 format. Hardcover. Ean code 9782918075042. Another reference for the knowledge of orchids of the Mediterranean basin. The book begins with a broad and erudite historical introduction and presents the species of French Ophrys with numerous photographic illustrations. You will also find superb watercolors by the Aveyron artist Marianne Fabre. Well presented, complete, a reference work! Please note that a booklet of 74 reproductions of watercolors is also available. EAN code 9782918075059 at the price of €75 + €10 postage. 23x23 format. Printed on tintoretto support (250 gr structured paper to highlight the works). Available from the author Rémy Souche, ophrysdefrance@orange.fr 7 Route des Cévennes 34380 Saint-Martin-de-Londres 06 20 30 35 27 Ophrys hybrids from the western Mediterranean basin. Remy Souche Self-published 2008. 290 pages. Paperback. Format 17x23. Price €33.50 postage included. The book is the most complete and dedicated to Ophrys hybrids and contrary to what its name indicates goes beyond the Mediterranean rim without claiming to be exhaustive of course. 1 photo per hybrid but these being unique, impossible to embrace everything. The guide begins with a "wall" of images that allows for quick identification of the hybrids that are discussed further inside the book. Well done on the author's part, his other books use the same handy trick! Available on the FFO website. Available from the author Rémy Souche, ophrysdefrance@orange.fr 7 Route des Cévennes 34380 Saint-Martin-de-Londres 06 20 30 35 27 Up Works with an artistic vocation. Wild orchids of Europe. Bo Mossberg. Henrik Pedersen Artemis editions . €35. 2017 edition. 28x22 format. If you are nostalgic for old illustrations based on drawings and watercolors, you will surely like this book. Before photography, there were talented illustrators who knew how to synthesize all the richness of plants in a single watercolor while it sometimes takes several photos to describe orchids stem, leaves and flowers at the same time. Bo Mossberg, a contemporary illustrator, with his art, knows how to alternate general views and close-ups in order to help us discern the essence of each species (200 in total). This is not a field book because of its 22x28 format but consulting it quietly at home and finding your own discoveries through all these illustrations will make you spend wonderful moments. H Pedersen's descriptions are no less talented and instructive. Available. Wild orchids from our regions. Flammarion. Hardcover. EAN code: 9782081253353 Photographer and botanist, Laurent Bessol presents a hundred French orchids. Many close-ups will allow you to identify your own discoveries even if this is not the primary purpose of this book in the generous 25x32 format. The orchids are presented in order of flowering and the many photos are accompanied by short but informative texts. Hard to find new but available second-hand. Up

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). La diversité des fleurs chez les orchidées : une seule espèce, des aspects multiples qui peuvent dérouter. 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.

Herbaria and Old Illustrations: Before photography and why not today as an alternative, illustrations are the first tools of naturalists. You will find after my own photographs some old illustrations from the 16th century to the first half of the 20th century. Among the oldest representations, it will sometimes be very complicated to recognize in these naive and approximate drawings for some, our orchids as we know them. It is unfortunately just as complicated to search in herbariums for a way to identify our discoveries. Among the significant works or the most representative illustrators of European terrestrial orchids, we can cite: - Franz Bauer (1758-1840). Austrian but worked at the Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew Garden. - Illustrated flora of Nice and the Maritime Alps (1868) by Jean Baptiste Barla (1817-1896). - Iconography of orchids of Europe and the Mediterranean basin (1929) by Edmond Camus (1852-1915). - Claus Caspari (1911-1980), German illustrator. - Jacobus Landwehr (1911-1996): Dutch author and illustrator of the 2-volume work Orchids of Europe (1977). - Eliza Klopfenstein (1921-2018): Belgian illustrator.

Discover orchids on the internet Discover the orchids of France and Europe through a selection of remarkable sites. Subscribe to the L'Orchidophile magazine from FFO (Fédération France Orchidées) available in paper version and all archive issues (243 issues at the end of 2024) are available online for subscribers: https://france-orchidees.org/produit/connexion-seul-tarif-membres-dassociations-francophones/ French websites http://orchideesdefrance.com/crbst_32.html https://www.elisajeanluc.fr/orchidees_nature/index.htm http://ophrys.bbactif.com/ Foreign websites https://orchid.unibas.ch/index.php/en/ http://www.orchidsofbritainandeurope.co.uk/index.htm

Approach Space dedicated to enthusiasts of wild orchids in France: The texts and photos on this site do not claim to be scientific or artistic but aim to help better understand the nature around us, which we often know little about. All photos are taken by the author of these lines, and engravings are borrowed from old, public domain works. The photos can be viewed, and I can provide free files upon request if you indicate their intended use. The first tabs showcase orchids found in France, but they are not endemic and can also be found in other European countries. Some of the illustrative photos come from other countries (Italy, Switzerland, etc.). A final tab presents orchids encountered only outside of France. If you have arrived at this space, you are probably aware that our countryside (and sometimes our cities) host wild orchids. Often so discreet that one can pass by them without noticing, the discovery of a single individual can leave us puzzled when trying to identify the species. It is better to find a colony (a group of several individuals) to confirm an identification. In France, many orchid species grow to 10 to 15 cm in height, with flowers smaller than a centimeter, making them easy to overlook. We simply admire them, sometimes photograph them, but never pick them, as most are rare and fragile. Flowers in vases or herbariums are outdated! And if they happen to appear in our gardens, it will be on their initiative. There's no point in attempting transplantation; it will fail in nearly all cases. For an orchid to grow and thrive, it requires a specific combination of terrain, light, and humidity. Above all, the familiar pollinating insects of the species must be present. These conditions are rare... and almost never where we would like them to be. To know them, to name them, is also to love them. I hope to share my passion with you or exchange with you because your passion is just as valuable as mine! A contact form is available. The views are introduced with a short text about the species, its biotope, and a few distinguishing features for identification. This is not intended to replace more detailed guides, but in these books, the iconographic base is often limited to one or two images, which only partially match your observations. The great variability of orchids cannot be summarized with so few photos, and I have often found myself frustrated with this "scarcity." The goal here is to illustrate each species with a broad photographic base, representing both the typical species and many variants. Please do not hesitate to point out any errors regarding the illustrations or the species they belong to, or any other necessary corrections. Identifying orchids is not a competition to check off the greatest number of species. You may sometimes meet enthusiasts who swear they have seen all the species that are still left for you to discover or confidently claim that certain species, reputed to be rare, are actually common. Let this not discourage you in your quest, and remain humble in front of a tricky species: it is often a variety of the most common species or a dilemma that will not have an absolutely certain solution. Around 70 orchid species will be presented, as well as a few subspecies commonly encountered: almost all of the most common ones. Of the approximately 160 species (species + subspecies) in our territory, this will represent the majority or all of the discoveries you could make during a few regional walks or over a season. The other species are either rare to very rare, some regional and highly localized (and some are still absent from my inventory, which certainly gets richer every year but remains partial due to the need to visit many regions). For others, they will be impossible to identify without the help of specialists. You may encounter helpful people in the field or through online contacts, but for identification assistance, some individuals who are very vocal about their numerous or exceptional discoveries will strangely remain silent about yours. The descriptions are basic but, I hope, understandable and sufficient. I have stuck to simple language to be accessible without a glossary, even at the risk of lacking scientific rigor, which some may criticize: this is intentional. Orchids love to deceive, so don't be surprised if you occasionally encounter one outside its normal biotope, in a region where it is not supposed to thrive, growing at an unrecorded altitude, or blooming outside its usual flowering period!

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 orchids Discover Orchids from France and Europe by Pascal Decologne. Orchidee-photo.com France : Aveyron, Aude, Lozère, Côte d'Or, Jura, Savoie, Essonne, Seine & Marne, Yvelines. Sardinia (Italy) Gargano (Italy) Quick Access: Basics of Orchids Get free high definition files on demand: Order form . Orchids of France These orchids are present in France and of course 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. S abot de Venus. Lady's slipper. Updated 09/2023 . Spiranthes spiralis. Spiranthe d'automne. Autum n lady's tresses. Updated 09/2023 . Anacamptis longicornu. Orchis à long éperon. Long spurred orchid. Updated 09/2023. Anacamptis pyramidalis. Orchis pyramidal. Pyramidal orchid. Updated 09/2023. Orchis simia. Orchis singe. Mon key orchid. Updated 09/2023. Orchis anthropophora. Orchis homme pendu. Ma n orchid. Updated 09/2023. Traunsteinera globosa. Orchis globuleux. Globe orchid. Updated 09/2023. Gymnadenia rhellicani. Orchis vanille. 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 helleborine. Epipactis à larges feuilles . Broad leaved helleborine. Updated 10/2023. Epipactis microphylla. Epipactis à petites feuilles. Small leaved helleborine. Updated 10/2023. Neotinea lactea. Orchis lacté . Milky orchid . Updated 10/2023. Neotinea ustulata. Orchis brûlé. Burnt orchid. Updated 10/2023. Dactylorhiza maculata. Orchis maculé/tacheté. Heath spotted orchid. Updated 10/2023. Dactylorhiza sambucina. Orchis sureau. Elder flowered orchid. Updated 10/2023. 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. Early spider orchid . Updated 12/2023 Ophrys lutea. Ophrys jaune. Yellow bee orchid. Updated 01/2024. Pseudophrys non déterminés Ophrys speculum. Ophrys miroir. Mirror orchid. Updated 12/2023 Serapias lingua. Serapias en langue. Tongue orchid. Updated 09/2023. Goodyera repens. Goody ère rampante. Creeping lady's tresses. Updated 09/2023. Anacamptis laxiflora. Orc his à fleurs lâches. Loose-flowered orchid. Updated 12/2024. Orchis purpurea. Orchis pourpre. Purple orchid. Updated 09/2023. Orchis mascula. Orchis mâle. Ma le orchid. Updated 09/2023. Himantoglossum hircinum. Orc his bouc. Lizard orchid. Updated 09/2023. Gymnadenia conopsea. Orchis moucheron. Fragrant orchid. Updated 09/2023 Gymnadenia corneliana. Nigritelle rose/de Cornelia. 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 muelleri. Epipactis de Müller. Mueller's helleborine. Updated 10/2023. Epipactis palustris. Epipactis des marais. Marsh helleborine. Updated 10/2023. Neotinea tridentata. Orchis tridenté . . Updated 10/2023. Limodorum abortivum. Limodore à feuilles avortées. Violet limodore. Updated 10/2023. Dactylorhiza elata. Orchis élevé. Robust marsh orchid. Updated 10/2023. Cephalanthera rubra. Cephalanthère rouge. Red helleborine. Updated 10/2023. Ophrys apifera. Ophrys abeille. Bee orchid. Updated 12/2023. Ophrys tenthredinifera. Ophrys guêpe. Sawfly orchid . Updated 02/2024. Ophrys incubacea. Ophrys noir. . Updated 01/2024. Ophrys araneola. Ophrys petite araignée. Early spider orchid. Updated 08/2024. Ophrys lupercalis. Ophrys des lupercales. Dark bee orchid. Ophrys insectifera. Ophrys mouche. Fly orchid. Updated 12/2023. Ophrys bombyliflora. Ophrys bombyx. Bumble bee orchid. Updated 12/2023 Serapias parviflora. S erapias à pe tites fleurs. Small flower tongue orchid. Updated 09/2023. Anacamptis morio. Orch is bouffon. Green winged orchid. Updated 09/2023. Anacamptis papilionacea. Orc his papillon. Pink butterfly orchid. Updated 09/2023. Orchis militaris. Orchis militaire. Militar y orchid. Updated 09/2023. Orchis provincialis. Orchis de Provence. Pro vence orchid. Updated 09/2023. Himantoglossum robertianum. Barlie d e Robert. Giant orchid. Updated 09/2023 . Gymnadenia odoratissima. Orchis très odorant. Short spurred fragrant orchid. Updated 09/2023 Platanthera chlorantha. Platanthère verte. Greater butterfly orchid. Updated 09/2023. Coeloglossum viride. (D viridis) Orchis grenouille. Frog orchid. Updated 08/2024. Epipactis atrorubens. Epipactis pourpre. Dark red helleborine. Updated 10/2023. Epipactis distans. Epipactis à feuilles distantes. . Updated 10/2023. Epipactis purpurata. Epipactis pourpre . Violet helleborine. Updated 10/2023. Neotinea maculata. Orchis intact. Dense flowered orchid. Updated 10/2023. Dactylorhiza fuchsii. Orchis de Fuchs. Common spotted orchid. Updated 10/2023. Dactylorhiza incarnata. Orchis incarnat. Early marsh orchid. Updated 10/2023. Cephalanthera longifolia. Cephalanthère à longues feuilles. Sword leaved helleborine. Updated 10/2023. Ophrys fuciflora. Ophrys frelon. Late spider orchid. Updated 12/2023 Ophrys aveyronensis. Ophrys de l'Aveyron. Updated 02/2024. Ophrys passionis/caloptera. Ophrys de la passion. Ophrys arachnitiformis. Ophrys en forme d'araignée. False spider orchid. Updated 08/2024. Ophrys fusca. Ophrys brun. Dark bee orchid. Updated 03/2024. Ophrys aymoninii. Ophrys d'Aymonin. Fly orchid. Updated 12/2023. 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. Ophrys 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. . Updated 09/2024 Ophrys parvimaculata. Ophrys à petite macule. Ophrys fuciflora subsp. parvimaculata. Updated 09/2024 Ophrys apulica. Ophrys des Pouilles. Ophrys fuciflora subsp. apulica. Updated 09/2024 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.

Neotinea lactea. Orchis lacté. Milky orchid. Neotinea lactea is very close to Neotinea tridentata or Neotinea conica and there is great confusion between these species. The iconography of the authors can also be questioned because it sometimes does not match the descriptions, varying greatly from one guide to another... We must therefore remain cautious before stating with certainty which species it is: conica, tridentata or lactea. The differences concern, among other things, the size of the flowers or the shape of the floral stem: more conical for N conica , more cylindrical for N lactea . Since many plants are pauciflorous, it is almost impossible to certify whether the stem is conical or cylindrical... I am not afraid to state that when observing in the field, these variations exist within the same station and therefore appear to be not very discriminating if they are different species. Even though the only way to correctly identify a "difficult" species is to find several individuals with the same characteristics! And the risk of hybridization would be high for plants sharing the same biotope and flowering at the same time. In the current state of the descriptions of the different guides which present few photos and descriptions insufficiently discriminating, I grouped my views under N lactea not having encountered a station with enough specimens with conical stem to claim to have encountered it. However, it is almost impossible to be mistaken when you come across it and to confuse it with other neotinea (ustulata or maculata). The stems are quite stocky and the plant is often not very tall. The flowers are white or pink in color and pigmented. The helmet is streaked with green like Anacamptis morio (Jewel orchid). Click on the photos to enlarge

BIOGRAPHY Presentation Amateur photographer since adolescence and passionate about natural sciences even if I did not make it my job, I discovered wild orchids about ten years ago by chance. I am lucky to live in the south of Essonne and not far from the forest of Fontainebleau. Between Etampes and Fontainebleau, the wastelands and limestone lawns, which are very frequent, are home to many orchids: Orchis, Ophrys, Epipactis...but you quickly feel cramped and the passion sometimes becomes an endless quest for new species, 'Hybrids, from Lusus. So I quickly extended my surveys to my native region: the Côte d'Or and the neighboring Jura. Then the Alps and La Vanoise to take advantage of the staggered flowering of certain species at altitude. At the beginning of spring, Aude and Aveyron... How and... why stop? Not being monomaniacal for all that, I also photograph other flowers, the insects that visit them. Good visit to all and do not hesitate to comment! Contact me Email: pascal.decologne@laposte.net Send Thank you for what you sent !

Neotinea ustulata. Orchis brûlé. Burnt orchid. A superb little orchid whose labellum shape is reminiscent of the purple orchid. But careful observation quickly makes us aware of the differences. The plant measures from 10 to 30 cm and bears a variable inflorescence of tiny helmet flowers (sepals and petals join to form a helmet above the labellum). The labellum is white dotted with small purple dots while the helmet is more or less dark purple. This orchid is found in a large part of the territory outside the North of France from May to the beginning of July depending on the region and altitude (up to 2000 m). It can be abundant or rare depending on the biotope, disappearing quickly if the vegetation is stifling because it prefers meadows of short grass. There is a species or subspecies ( Neotinea aestivalis ) which flowers in July in the Alps and is said to be taller with a more developed flower stem. Click on the photos to enlarge

French Society of Orchidophilia. French Federation of Orchid Lovers. Founded in 1969 and with 1,500 members and many more in regional associations, the SFO is the benchmark for French associations on the subject. Dealing with the cultivation of tropical orchids but also present for the preservation of French orchids, the association publishes Orchidophile, a quarterly newsletter. Its format has recently expanded to highlight a generous iconography . The subscription is not conditional on membership of the SFO and allows consultation of the archives (a hundred issues already online out of 200). Having completed the digitization of these archives for the association, I think I can say that it is a mine of knowledge on the subject which has little equivalent elsewhere. The French federation of orchid lovers recently joined the SFO in order to unite their resources on common projects. https://sfo-asso.fr/ https://sfo-asso.fr/publications/lorchidophile/ https://ffao-asso.jimdofree.com/ Wild orchid One of the missions of the FFO is to enable orchid populations to be monitored both geographically and temporally. For many years now, Wild Orchis, through a collaboration of volunteers, both in running the site and in collecting data, has enabled this dynamic monitoring. https://www.orchisauvage.fr/index.php