Platanthera chlorantha: Four specimens found in La Garrotxa

Following a morning dedicated to a route around the Puig del Far area (Osona), the day continued with a journey to a specific location in La Garrotxa. The primary objective was to search for other species, but during this exploration, we had the opportunity to make a noteworthy record: the presence of Platanthera chlorantha, commonly known as the Greater Butterfly-orchid.

Approximately four specimens of this robust terrestrial orchid were observed, appearing to be in good flowering condition. P. chlorantha is distinguished by its two large, oval, and shiny basal leaves, and by a lax spike inflorescence displaying yellowish-green and waxy-textured flowers. A key distinguishing feature, setting it apart from its sister species P. bifolia, is its divergent pollinia, which are separated at the base and converge at the tips. This species typically prefers unimproved pastures and the edges of open deciduous forests, especially on calcareous soils, conditions consistent with the environment of the discovery in La Garrotxa. Its flowering period usually occurs from May to July, and the plant emits a vanilla-like fragrance, most intense in the evening to attract the nocturnal moths that pollinate it. This observation adds a valuable record to the orchidological biodiversity of the region.