Observation of Ophrys passionis with Atypical Traits in Garrotxa and La Selva

This Sunday, April 26th, we conducted a field excursion to investigate the orchid flora in the Garrotxa and La Selva counties. During this exploration, we had the opportunity to document the presence of specimens of Ophrys passionis, commonly known as the Passion Bee Orchid.

Despite being late in its flowering season, which typically extends from mid-March to early May, the observed specimens remained in good condition. However, we noted that they exhibited certain characteristics that made them appear somewhat different from the typical description of O. passionis. This terrestrial orchid, which usually measures between 10 and 30 cm in height, is distinguished by its greenish sepals and petals, and its rounded, dark purplish-brown labellum, often featuring an 'H' or 'π' shaped macula. These variations could be attributed to the late stage of their bloom or to a local phenotypic expression.

Their presence in these locations, typically on sunny, calcareous soils such as dry meadows and forest clearings, contributes to the ongoing documentation of this species' distribution in Catalonia. While widespread, new records or morphological details always enrich our understanding.