Edition 87 - Wild orchids
22.04.2024 • 06.05.2024
The secret life of orchids at the breath-taking Natural Park of Aire and Candeeiros Mountains. As far as the laws of seduction are concerned, orchids are true masters ! A fascinating world to unveil. This is also an homage to the Revolution of the 25th April 1974, because freedom is as frail as an orchid.
Edition 87 - Wild orchids
Wild orchids

Wild orchids

In Portugal there are 55 species of wild orchids. A great part of this species can be found in the Natural Park of Aire and Candeeiros Mountains, namely 27 species! The gorgeous bee orchids are the living proof of how impressively intelligent orchids can be. 
Neotinea tridentata subsp. conica

Neotinea tridentata subsp. conica

Described for the first time in Portugal in 1805, the orchid species Neotinea tridentata subsp. conica was by that time known as Orchis conica. Its tiny flowers resemble angels and are beautifully fragile. 
Cephalanthera longifolia (L.) Fritsch

Cephalanthera longifolia (L.) Fritsch

The orchid species Cephalanthera longifolia is one of the few white orchids blooming in Portugal. It can be easily spotted amidst forest glades and on roadsides, in transition zones between oak tree or pine forests and low bushes. 
Limodorum trabutianum Battandier

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.   
Ophrys scolopax Cavanilles

Ophrys scolopax Cavanilles

Also known as the bird flower, Ophrys scolopax stands out as one of the most beloved wild orchids of the Natural Park of Aire and Candeeiros Mountains !