Family: Orchidaceae
Author: (Lam.) R.M.Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W.Chase
Bibliography: Lindleyana 12: 120 (1997)
Year: 1997
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Anacamptis
Vegetable: False
Observations: Channel Is. to WC. Europe, Medit. to C. Asia
Description
The Lax-flowered orchid, known scientifically as Anacamptis laxiflora, is a captivating member of the Orchidaceae family. This exquisite plant is notable for its delicate and loosely arranged flowers, contributing to its common name. An elegant and often strikingly beautiful appearance characterizes the Lax-flowered orchid, making it a distinguished entity within the botanical world.
First described in detail in Lindleyana in 1997, the Lax-flowered orchid has garnered considerable interest among botanists and nature enthusiasts alike. Authored by respected botanists R.M. Bateman, Pridgeon, and M.W. Chase, it maintains a significant place in floral taxonomy. Its botanical nomenclature highlights the contributions of earlier taxonomists, with meticulous documentation passed down through generations of scientific study.
This orchid’s distribution is notably vast and varied, spanning the Channel Islands, Western and Central Europe, the Mediterranean region, and extending as far as Central Asia. Such a widespread range speaks to its adaptability and resilience across different climatic and geographical conditions. Despite varying environments, the Lax-flowered orchid thrives, showcasing its vibrant blooms during the flowering season.
This member of the Orchidaceae family exemplifies the biodiversity within the orchid genus. Orchids are renowned for their intricate and captivating floral structures, and Anacamptis laxiflora is no exception. Its loosely clustered flowers display a range of colors, often with subtle variations that add to its visual allure. Its blooming phase is a time of admiration for those fortunate enough to encounter it in its natural habitat.
The study and conservation of Anacamptis laxiflora continue to be important as natural habitats face increasing pressures from human activities and climate change. Protecting such species ensures that their beauty and ecological roles are preserved for future generations. Botanists and conservationists work diligently to monitor populations and preserve the diverse environments where this orchid flourishes.
In summary, the Lax-flowered orchid is a remarkable species within the Orchidaceae family, admired for its delicate beauty and significant ecological presence in various regions. Its scientific description and widespread habitat highlight the importance of ongoing botanical research and conservation efforts, ensuring this enchanting orchid continues to adorn the landscapes of Europe and Asia.
Common Names
En: Lax-flowered Orchid, Loose-flowered Orchid, Marsh Orchis
Ca: Orquis palustre
Nl: IJle Orchis
Fr: Orchis à fleurs lâches, Ivraie des prés, Pentecôte
De: Lockerblütige Orchis, Lockerblütiges Knabenkraut
It: Orchide acquatica
: Lax-flowered orchid
Synonyms
- Paludorchis laxiflora ((Lam.) P.Delforge)
- Orchis laxiflora (Lam.)
- Orchis palustris subsp. laxiflora ((Lam.) Batt.)
- Herorchis laxiflora ((Lam.) D.Tyteca & E.Klein)
Distribution
- Afghanistan (native)
- Albania (native)
- Belgium (native)
- Bulgaria (native)
- Corse (native)
- Cyprus (native)
- East Aegean Is. (native)
- France (native)
- Germany (native)
- Greece (native)
- Iran (native)
- Iraq (native)
- Italy (native)
- Kazakhstan (native)
- Kriti (native)
- Lebanon-Syria (native)
- Morocco (native)
- North Caucasus (native)
- Palestine (native)
- Portugal (native)
- Sardegna (native)
- Sicilia (native)
- Spain (native)
- Switzerland (native)
- Tadzhikistan (native)
- Transcaucasus (native)
- Turkey (native)
- Turkey-in-Europe (native)
- Ukraine (native)
- Uzbekistan (native)
- Yugoslavia (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken May 30, 2021 by Philippe Levarlet (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 21, 2022 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 2, 2022 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 2, 2022 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 29, 2021 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken May 2, 2022 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 29, 2022 by Giordano Cristiano (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 9, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 2, 2022 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 29, 2021 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken May 2, 2022 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 2, 2022 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 15, 2019 by Anne Perdereau (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 29, 2021 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 29, 2021 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Apr 29, 2009 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 21, 2022 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken May 22, 2022 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 22, 2022 by Pierre LEON (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Aug 15, 2010 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jan 15, 1995 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Aug 15, 2010 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Dec 31, 1874 by Tela Botanica − Herbier PONTARLIER-MARICHAL (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 25, 2022 by Stefana Popova (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:998294-1)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2808426)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Anacamptis laxiflora (Lam.) R.M.Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W.Chase)
Specifications
Growth
Ph maximum: 7.5
Ph minimum: 7.0
Light: 8
Atmospheric humidity: 8
Bloom months: [‘apr’, ‘may’, ‘jun’]
Soil nutriments: 5