Orchis ustulata

Orhis ustulata is relatively rare in Greece and only grows in northern mountains, such as Tymfi in Epirus

Orchis ustulataOrhis ustulata or Neotinea ustulata (burnt-tip orchid) is a European terrestrial orchid native to mountains in central and southern Europe, growing at up to 2,400 m (7,900 ft) elevation.
It has erect stems carrying 2 to 3, basal in a rosette, oblong, unmarked leaves with 1 to 2 apical bract-like leaves that blooms in the spring and summer on an 2″ [5 cm] long, densly many flowered oblong inflorescence with membraneous, reddish bracts that are shorter than the ovaries and carries slightly fragrant flowers.

Orhis ustulata is relatively rare in Greece and only grows in the northern mountains, such as Tymfi in Epirus. It is easily distinguished by the contrast between the dark hood and the lighter lip, which gives the impression of a plant burnt at the top (ustulata=burnt). flowering time: April-August.

Photos by geozagori