A Striking Serapias cordigera in the Aude Department, France

During a recent botanical exploration across several points within the Aude department in France, our attention was drawn to a singular yet distinctive specimen of the Serapias cordigera, commonly known as the Heart-flower serapias. This particular individual stood out significantly from other Serapias species encountered in the area, making it a noteworthy find.

The Heart-flower serapias is characterized by its prominent labellum, which is typically 3 to 4.5 cm long and features a wide, heart-shaped frontal lobe. This unique morphology likely contributed to its distinct appearance among its regional counterparts. Its color, which can range from pale orange to deep red or even glossy black, along with the two divergent callosities at its base, makes it a visually compelling orchid. This perennial herbaceous plant typically flowers between April and June, and thrives in diverse habitats such as humid meadows, pastures, and open woodlands, preferring siliceous or acidic soils.

Observing this solitary yet robust specimen underscores the rich biodiversity of the Aude region and provides valuable insight into the local variations of this widespread Mediterranean orchid.