Observation of a Large Lusus Ophrys apifera in La Garrotxa

Following a morning trek at Puig del Far in the Osona region, I journeyed to a specific location in La Garrotxa, primarily intending to observe Himantoglossum hircinum.

However, at the same site, I had the opportunity to document a specimen of Ophrys apifera, commonly known as the Bee Orchid. This individual stood out as a rather large lusus, exhibiting a robust and striking presence within its natural setting.

Ophrys apifera is an orchid renowned for its deceptive flower, which visually mimics a bee. Its most distinctive features include a round, convex, dark brown, and velvety labellum (lip), along with prominent pink or white sepals. It is one of the few species in its genus that preferably practices autogamy (self-fertilization), a distinguishing reproductive trait. This orchid typically thrives in calcareous soils, often found in meadows, scrubland, and forest clearings—conditions that were consistent with the observation site. Its flowering period commonly spans from May to July, which aligns with this current sighting. The discovery of this particular lusus specimen adds an interesting note to the orchid biodiversity documented in La Garrotxa.