Syn.: Orchis mascula subsp. scopulorum (Summerh.) Sundermann
Family: Orchidaceae Juss.
Distribution: Endemic to Madeira.
Ecology: Rocky slopes of the highest parts of central mountains in Madeira, from 1100 to 1800 m. Flowers from May to June.
Description: Perennial plant, 20–65 cm tall, 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. Corolla is in shades of pink and purple, lip 10–17 mm long, slightly lighter than other petals, with purple dots, cylindrical spur is 6–8 mm long. The fruit is a capsule.
Threat and Protection: Very rare orchid, protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
These images were taken in Portugal, Madeira, Pico do Gato (May 15, 2006).
