ORCHIS SCOPULORUM Summerh. – Branching Orchid, Rock Orchid

Syn.: Orchis mascula subsp. scopulorum (Summerh.) Sundermann
Family: Orchidaceae Juss.

Distribution: Endemic to Madeira.
Habitat: Rocky slopes of the highest parts of central mountains in Madeira, from 1 100 to 1 800 m.
Description: Perennial plant, 20–65 cm in height, glabrous. The basal leaves are oblong-ovate up to 15 cm long and 5 cm wide, glossy, in some cases with dark spots. There are also several scale-like leaves at the basis. Spike inflorescence up to 10 cm long, formed by 8–18 flowers and bracts of the same length as flowers. Cylindrical spur is 6–8 mm long. Corolla is in shades of pink and purple, lip 10–17 mm long, slightly lighter than other petals, with purple dots. Flowers from May to June.
Threat and Protection: Very rare orchid, protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).



Photos 15. 5. 2006 (Portugal, Madeira, Pico do Gato).