Giant Orchid
Himantoglossum robertianum
Orchis géant
Presence in
Height. 50cm to 80cm
Leaves. lower leaves are oblong- ovate, forming a basal rosette, with the upper leaves lanceolate and clasping the stem and like the stem often with reddish-brown markings.
Flowers. Colour is very variable, from dark pink-purple to greenish-white. The individual flowers have an upper hood made up of 3 petals. The large lower lip usually with a lighter spotted center and darker margins, is divided into 3,
Flowering period. Very early Feburary - April
Soil type. Open ground with alkaline substrate, the Giant Orchid can also appear in open woodland and old olive groves; it likes plenty of sunshine.
Protection. None known