Gymnadenia conopsea: Mountain scent and double find

The search for orchids in Berguedà was especially fruitful with the Gymnadenia conopsea, popularly known as the Fragrant Orchid due to its intense scent. This orchid, characterized by its long spike of pink or lilac flowers and strong aroma, was located in two different habitats on the same day.

Initially, we found it sharing space with Dactylorhiza majalis and Platanthera chlorantha. Later, at a second stop, we confirmed its presence in a slightly different environment, accompanied by a dense population of Dactylorhiza maculata and the spectacular Dactylorhiza incarnata. This double finding highlights the adaptability of G. conopsea and the orchid richness of the Pre-Pyrenees, where various species compete in beauty and vitality within a few square meters.