Having posted pictures of the emerging Himantoglossum hircinumI saw last week along the Northern coast not far from my place, I realized I have never shared some nice pictures of that Lizard Orchid population I took a couple of seasons before. I had already shown some of these plants a few years ago but in 2017, I uncovered many more specimens that were at their prime when I photographed them. I thought this would make a fine addition to the blog so here they are.
This site, close to dunes-slacks was visited on June, 11th. I first thought that the Lizard Orchid was quite localized there but I eventually found out that It was growing in many different spots sometimes in quite some numbers. That season, the plants were looking really good and the distinctive goat's smell could be detected from quite some distance.
While it can be rare in some parts of Europe like it is the case in the UK, this charismatic orchid is fairly common France. It can grow over one meter high but despite this imposing stature, it is also difficult to spot as the flowers are greenish white and surrounded by tall grasses.
This is one of my very favorite local orchids. I am always in awe of its purple brownish, curled and ribbon-like labellum that really gives it an uncanny appearance. Here, in Northern France, I usually find it growing in sunny position, in sand dunes or calcareous grasslands, forming very small groups or sometimes small colonies. Hopefully, I will be able to enjoy its delightful delectable fragrance once again this year. ;-)
