Ophrys fuciflora is quite similar to the bee orchid, ophrys apifera, with which it hybridises; differences include the wider upper petals, the more complex markings on the lip, and the green appendage at the base of the lip.
Common name:
Late spider orchid
Family:
Scientific name:
Ophrys fuciflora
Main flower color:
Range:
East Kent
Height:
Up to 50 cm
Habitat:
Chalk downland
Flowers:
The three sepals are white to yellowish green to pale pink, relatively broad, with a green midrib, positioned at 90 degrees from each other. The two upper petals, in between the sepals, are triangular, pinkish-green, blunt-pointed. The lower petal, the lip, is approximately rectangular in shape, or slightly wider towards the apex, red to reddish brown in colour, with a complex, and variable, pattern of yellow, silver or lighter red. At the tip is a forwards-projecting green appendage
Leaves:
Broad, ovate, light green; basal and cauline
Season:
June to July
Rarity:
★★★★★
