Anacamptis coriophora Flourishing on Costa Pubilla

During a recent trek along the route to Costa Pubilla, we had the opportunity to encounter numerous specimens of Anacamptis coriophora, commonly known as the Bug Orchid. The observation was made while descending from the peak, where these distinctive orchids were found in excellent flowering condition.

It was particularly noteworthy to find such a flourishing display, with many plants exhibiting their characteristic dense, oblong-cylindrical spikes. The flowers, typically a dark wine red or reddish-purple, displayed their unique three-lobed labellum with red spots on a paler background. While this species typically blooms from April to early July, finding so many individuals still in optimal condition was a pleasant discovery, suggesting favorable local conditions. Anacamptis coriophora often thrives in full sun within humid meadows or clearings, and the terrain along the descent from Costa Pubilla seemed to provide an ideal environment for this species.