Ophrys sphegodes ssp atrata Dark Ophrys
The labellum of this plant is dark that the O. sphegodes like markings on the labellum are quite faint but the prominent bumps at the side together with the dark brown colouring are characteristic.
Taxonomy: The local Gargano flora and Pierre Delforge's tome have elevated this orchid to species rank and call it Ophrys incubacea Bianca. However the large databases at Kew (World Flora online) which do not dislike subspecies insist that the correct, accepted name for this taxon is Ophrys sphegodes ssp atrata (Rchb.f.) A.Bolòs.
Just to illustrate the horrendus state of Ophrys taxonomy in Europe, this species has no fewer than 32 Ophrys synonyms and 2 Arachnites.
It is found in the Balkan countries, Italy, Sicily, Sardinia, France, Spain and Portugal.
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| Ophrys sphegodes ssp atrata |
Hillside near Monte Sacro, Gargano, Italy 21st April 2009
Added January 16th 2010, updated 21st January 2011, updated 4th February 2025