Ophrys gortynia - (Orchidaceae)

This ophrys is very similar to Ophrys Sphegodes (Early spider orchid) but flowers much later, usually from late March until late April. It has been variously categorised as being a subspecies of Ophrys sphegodes, or as a member of the Ophrys mammosa group of orchids which are common throughout the eastern Mediterranean region. Along with Ophrys cretensis, Ophrys gortynia is endemic to the Greek islands. They both occur most commonly in Crete and are sometimes confused with each other.

Ophrys gortynia

The plants of Ophrys gortynia can grow up to around 40cm in height

The plant is tall with between 3 and 10 flowers carried on a lax infloresence. The lip of the flower is undivided and sometimes has a fine border of yellow around the edge. It typically carries the H-shaped marking on the lip, so familiar from Ophrys sphegodes.

Ophrys gortynia flower

This is the more usual appearance of Ophrys gortynia - the lip has a fine yellow border around the edge.

Another form of Ophrys gortynia

The flower of this plant has a much flatter lip than the one above but was found growing in very close proximity to it.

Ophrys gortynia grows in full sun to mid-shade on dry or slightly moist calcareous soils in short grassland, phygana and on wasteland.

The plants on this page were photographed near Plakias on the southern coast of Crete in early April.