Observation of Neotinea ustulata in Ripollès, Catalonia

During a recent field exploration in the Ripollès region of Catalonia, we had the opportunity to document approximately two specimens of the Burnt orchid (Neotinea ustulata). These individuals were located at an approximate altitude of 1800 meters above sea level.

The observation took place in a habitat consistent with the ecological preferences of this small terrestrial orchid, which is primarily a montane species in Southern Europe. Neotinea ustulata thrives in open, well-lit areas with short grass, such as mountain meadows and undisturbed summer pastures. Its specific epithet, 'ustulata', meaning 'slightly burnt', refers to the characteristic dark appearance of the upper part of its inflorescence before the flowers fully open. This bicolored trait, with distinctive dark red or purple upper buds and lower open flowers displaying a white, trilobate labellum, makes it readily identifiable in its alpine environment. This finding enhances our understanding of its presence and distribution in the high-mountain areas of the Catalan Pyrenees.