Limodorum trabutianum Battandier

The Limodorum species is definitely among the most peculiar wild orchid species in the Natural Park of Aire and Candeeiros Mountains. This species can be easily spotted all over this stunning natural park, growing in dry alkaline soils amidst many dead layer.

The Limodorum species is definitely among the most peculiar wild orchid species in the Natural Park of Aire and Candeeiros Mountains. This species can be easily spotted all over this stunning natural park, growing in dry alkaline soils amidst many dead layer.

Limodorum orchids bloom between April and May in the borders of Aire Mountains and in the pine and oak tree forests of Monsanto, in Alcanena. The way they obtain their food is quite unique, since they literally parasite a fungus in order to get all the nutrients they need. These orchids have thus developed along time mind-blowing feeding mechanisms that surely have guaranteed them survival.

As far as reproduction is concerned, they are also self-sufficient, not needing any pollinator. The stigma is located under the antenna and the pollen falls directly onto the stigma, fertilising the plant.

The Limodorum orchids can be over 50 cm-high and before blooming, the flowers look like Asparagus. When they bloom, they develop a light rose colouring. They many not win a beauty contest, but they sure have brilliantly managed their survival techniques across time!

Photo credits: Luís Afonso

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