Ophrys lutea - Yellow Ophrys - Yellow Bee Orchid - (Orchidaceae)

This orchid is one of the most common and widespread in the Mediterranean region. There are two very similar (though with smaller flowers which have narrower yellow borders) subspecies also widely distributed, Ophrys sicula and Ophrys phryganae.

Ophrys lutea - Yellow Ophrys

From late February until May the Yellow Ophrys is widespread throughout the Western and Central Mediterranean region. It is sometimes referred to as the Yellow Bee Orchid, and must surely be one of the most beautiful of the Mediterranean ophrys species.

Whole plants of the Yellow Bee Orchd

It can grow up to 25 cm in height and frequently occurs in quite dense colonies. The flowers are a bright, golden yellow and the lip has a maroon centre which is sometimes very dark but can equally be quite light - see below.

Closeup of Ophrys lutea

The specimen above was photographed in Portugal on the Algarve in mid March.

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