Dense Population of Common Spotted-orchid in Ripollès

During a recent botanical exploration through the Ripollès region, we had the opportunity to document the first blooms of Dactylorhiza fuchsii for this season. This orchid, commonly known as the Common Spotted-orchid, can reach 25 to 60 cm in height and is distinguished by its broad basal leaves with characteristic elongated dark spots across the surface. Its labellum is deeply trilobed, with the central lobe pointed, narrow, and clearly protruding, a key feature differentiating it from Dactylorhiza maculata.

The discovery was made during our descent towards Camprodon, at a site already known for hosting a large number of specimens of this species. The observed individuals were in good flowering condition, displaying pale pink to purple flowers that gave off a delicate vanilla scent. The environment, which appeared to be a fresh mountain meadow, provided the ideal conditions preferred by this orchid, which thrives in calcareous or basic soils and humid areas. This observation of early flowering confirms the life cycle of Dactylorhiza fuchsii in the region and highlights the importance of these enclaves for the conservation of this unique mountain species.