Pseudorchis albida Observation in Aigüestortes National Park

During a recent four-day trek through the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, we had the opportunity to document over 30 specimens of Pseudorchis albida, commonly known as the Small white-orchid. This perennial, autotrophic orchid, characterized by its fasciculate and undivided fusiform tubers, is typical of high-mountain meadows and was an anticipated find, as the entire route remained above 2000 meters in altitude. This species typically thrives between 1350 and 2400 meters in the Iberian Peninsula's Pyrenees, making this an ideal habitat for its presence.

Most of the observed specimens showed their flowers already past their prime, indicating that the main flowering period had concluded. However, some individuals still retained their last flowers in good condition or presented inflorescences with intact parts. Morphologically, the majority of the plants were small, barely reaching 10 cm in height, which aligns with the general description of this plant as 'relatively small' (12.5 to 26 cm, up to 40 cm). Nonetheless, we located some taller specimens with visibly larger flowers, showcasing the natural variability within the population. The small, whitish flowers with greenish or yellowish tones on the trilobed labellum, are grouped in a dense, cylindrical terminal spike. It is worth noting that a large majority of the specimens were concentrated around the Refugi de Saboredo, suggesting a robust local population in this specific area, despite Pseudorchis albida being a very rare species in Catalonia.