Flowering Narrow-leaved Helleborine Near Escornalbou Castle

During a recent route to Castell d'Escornalbou from l'Argentera, I had the opportunity to observe several specimens of the Narrow-leaved helleborine, Cephalanthera longifolia. Specifically, three flowering individuals were noted close to the old charcoal burning area, situated along the path before reaching the castle when coming from l'Argentera.

These terrestrial orchids, characterized by their pure white flowers and distinctively long, narrow leaves arranged in opposing rows, were in good bloom. The observation aligns well with their typical flowering period, which occurs in spring, generally between April and June. Cephalanthera longifolia often thrives in shady and humid locations, frequently on calcareous ground, habitats that are consistent with the immediate environment of the charcoal pit area. This finding contributes to the ongoing documentation of the local orchid flora in this region.