Field Notes: Platanthera bifolia in La Garrotxa

After a morning exploration in Osona, we proceeded to a specific location in the La Garrotxa region, with the intention of observing Himantoglossum hircinum. During this visit, we had the opportunity to document the presence of several specimens of Platanthera bifolia, commonly known as the Lesser Butterfly-orchid.

The few individuals observed were in good condition, flowering during their characteristic summer period. This perennial terrestrial orchid is distinguished by its two large, shiny basal leaves at the base of the stem. The inflorescence is a cylindrical spike featuring white or greenish-white flowers, each with a long, slender spur. A key identification detail is its parallel and closely positioned pollinia. The find site, likely a woodland clearing or montane meadow, is consistent with the preferred habitats of this species, which include open forests and grasslands.

Platanthera bifolia is an orchid known for emitting a sweet fragrance during the night to attract pollinators such as nocturnal moths. In Catalonia, its presence is scattered, and like many orchids, it has experienced a decline due to habitat loss and altered environmental conditions. This observation highlights the importance of conserving the ecosystems that support this delicate species.