Observation of Serapias parviflora in Baix Empordà

After lunch, we dedicated the afternoon to exploring a location in Baix Empordà already familiar to me. During this field day, we had the opportunity to observe Serapias parviflora, commonly known as the Small-flowered Serapias, which represents one of several Serapias species present in the area.

We located a few specimens of this terrestrial orchid. Serapias parviflora is characterized by its small flowers (between 15 and 20 mm), a trait that often causes it to go unnoticed. This orchid reaches a height of 10 to 35 cm, with its sepals and petals converging to form a galea. No hybrid specimens were detected among the observed individuals, which is consistent with its autogamous nature.

The presence of this species in Empordà is documented, although it is considered rare with localized populations in Catalonia. Its typical habitat includes clearings in scrubland and forests, meadows, and garrigues, as well as rear-dune areas with sandy substrates, showing indifference to soil type. This observation contributes to the ongoing documentation of the orchid flora in the region.