Ophrys promontorii - (Orchidaceae)

This is another of the confusing Ophrys species to be found in the Gargano Peninsula area of Italy, although the somewhat longer and more oval lip which is dark, velvety brown with densely hairy margins is a good clue to look for when attempting identification of the species.

Ophrys promontorii plant

The plant is most common at Mount Gargano but is also reported as occurring in other parts of Italy. It flowers from April until mid-May and can be found in open grassy places, meadows, on the edge of woodlands, and also in scrub and garrigue. Monte Sacro, an exceptionally floristically-rich limestone hill in the Gargano Peninsula, is a good place to look for this orchid, but it occurs in stable groups in other parts, too. Try not to get distracted by the thousands of other beautiful wildflowers that are also present in the region!

The longer, more oval lip of Ophrys promontorii

This specimen was photographed at Monte Sacro in the Gargano Peninsula in Italy in mid April.