|
MARCH 2008 continued
 |
| Ophrys spruneri ssp. grigoriana - Grigorian Ophrys - This ophrys is endemic to Crete and is thought to be more widely distributed than has been recorded so far. This specimen was photographed above Elounda. It has very large flowers with partly formed side lobes.
|
|
 |
| Ophrys spruneri ssp. spruneri - Spruner’s Ophrys - Spruners Ragwurz - This ophrys has a strange forward pointing swelling at the tip of its lip. Its lip is deeply divided into three. It is not so widespread in the east, although its recorded distribution is a little patchy.
|
|
 |
| Ophrys tenthredinifera - Wasp Ophrys - Wespen Ragwurz - Stunningly beautiful ophrys which is common on Crete and can be found in pine woodland, fields and in meadows.
|
|
 |
| Orchis anatolica - Anatolian Orchid - Anatolisches Knabenkraut - With its reddish brown stem and thin, upwardly pointing spur, this orchid is easily recognised. It can be found in great numbers in eastern Crete.
|
|
 |
| Orchis italica - Italian Orchid - Italienisches Knabenkraut - The distinctive leaves of this orchid are frilled and have dark spots. It is a common species, which is often found in large colonies. Its very strong stem and striking shaggy spike are very attractive and easily identified.
|
|
 |
| Orchis lactea - Milky Orchid - Milchweißes Knabenkraut - A strong but squat plant which is sometimes confused with Orchis tridentate. The latter has a helmet formed by the sepals which is wider open than in Orchis lactea in which they are closer together. The three lobed lip of the latter is also less fringed and more rounded.
|
|
 |
| Orchis quadrapunctata - Four spotted Orchid - Vierpunkt-Knabenkraut - This orchid has a very distinctive flower shape which are coloured from white through to red. The four spots which give the orchid its name are found on the upper, white area of the lip, which divides into three towards the tip.
|
|
 |
| Orchis sitiaca - Sitia Orchid - Sitia-Knabenkraut - This orchid has very identifiable leaves , which are green/grey/silver with fine dark spots. The lateral lobes of the lip bend strongly downwards, which when seen from above, gives it a narrow appearance.
|
|
 |
| Serapias parviflora - Small-flowered Serapias - As the name ‘parviflora’ suggests, this little serapias has relatively small flowers. In contrast to the small flowers, the leaves are very long, almost touching the lower end of the inflorescence.
|
|
|
