La Barlie de Robert
At this time of year in Provence, along the roadsides and dotting abandoned orchards, are wild orchids. The last thing I expected whilst foraging in early spring was to find myself hopping and gyrating in an effort not to trod on the abundance of flowers sprouting above the grass. Last year, after witnessing the relay of different varieties turn up in between the weeds; I can say that wild orchids are quite common in Provence.
There are a few Himantoglossum robertianum common left in the shade but what are really plentiful right now are the different Ophrys varieties.
Different Varieties of Wild Orchids
Some of 67 species of orchids found in Provence are protected. Here is a great website that helps identify what you may find near you in the Bouches du Rhône region of Provence.
Other orchids to anticipate as summer approaches…
I love the markings on this one.
L’Orchis Pyramidale (with snails)
Do you have any wild orchids where you live? What are your favourites?
Photos of Early Spring Landscapes in Provence. If you’re a lover of wildflowers like myself, see May Cyanotypes with wild Provence poppies.
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