Woodcock orchid (Ophrys scolopax, Icon. 2: 46 (1793))

Family: Orchidaceae

Author: Cav.

Bibliography: Icon. 2: 46 (1793)

Year: 1793

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ophrys

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Hungary, Medit. to N. Iran

Description

The Woodcock Orchid, scientifically known as Ophrys scolopax, is a captivating member of the Orchidaceae family. This stunning orchid boasts a rich history and a unique presence in various parts of the world, specifically spanning from the Mediterranean regions to Northern Iran, including Hungary.

Discovered and categorized in the late 18th century, with its classification documented in “Icones Plantarum” in 1793 by Cav., the Woodcock Orchid has since fascinated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. Its name, “Woodcock Orchid,” can be attributed to its distinctive appearance, where the flower’s shape and coloring resemble the plumage and form of a woodcock bird.

Ophrys scolopax is primarily characterized by its intricate and vibrant flowers. The petals are often a mix of purples, browns, and yellows, with a unique lip that mimics the body of an insect, a trait common in the Ophrys genus. This mimicry is not just for visual appeal; it plays a crucial role in the orchid’s pollination strategy. The flower’s structure and coloration attract specific pollinators, which are fooled into attempting to mate with the flower, thus aiding in the transfer of pollen.

The natural habitat of the Woodcock Orchid includes diverse terrains across its geographical range. It is often found in limestone-rich soils, thriving in meadows, light woodlands, and grassy slopes where it can receive ample sunlight and moisture. The environmental conditions in regions from the Mediterranean to Northern Iran provide the ideal setting for its growth, contributing to the orchid’s healthy populations in these areas.

In terms of cultivation and care, Ophrys scolopax requires specific conditions to flourish outside its natural habitat. Gardeners and orchid enthusiasts must replicate its natural growing conditions to ensure successful blooming. This includes maintaining well-drained soil, ensuring adequate sunlight, and providing a balanced climate that mirrors its native environment.

The Woodcock Orchid not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of gardens but also serves as an integral part of biodiversity, supporting the ecosystem by attracting and sustaining pollinator populations. This delicate balance underscores the importance of conservation efforts to protect its natural habitats from ongoing threats such as habitat destruction and climate change.

With its extraordinary beauty and ecological significance, Ophrys scolopax remains a symbol of nature’s ingenuity and the intricate relationships within ecosystems. Its presence across regions from Hungary to Northern Iran showcases the adaptability and endurance of this remarkable orchid species.

Common Names

En: Woodcock Orchid
Ca: Abellera becada
Fr: Ophrys bécasse, Ophrys oiseau
It: Ofride cornuta
Es: Orquídea becada

Synonyms

• Ophrys fuciflora subsp. scolopax ((Cav.) H.Sund.)
• Ophrys arachnites var. scolopax ((Cav.) Fiori & Paol.)
• Ophrys insectifera subsp. scolopax ((Cav.) Moggr.)

Distribution

• Albania (native)
• Algeria (native)
• Baleares (native)
• Bulgaria (native)
• Corse (native)
• East Aegean Is. (native)
• France (native)
• Greece (native)
• Hungary (native)
• Iran (native)
• Italy (native)
• Kriti (native)
• Krym (native)
• Lebanon-Syria (native)
• Morocco (native)
• North Caucasus (native)
• Portugal (native)
• Romania (native)
• Sicilia (native)
• Spain (native)
• Transcaucasus (native)
• Tunisia (native)
• Turkey (native)
• Turkey-in-Europe (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 20, 2016 by Susana López (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 23, 2017 by Susana López (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 14, 2019 by Manu Pacha (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 14, 2019 by Manu Pacha (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 29, 2018 by juanbautistafernandez (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Feb 25, 2022 by Beate Liebold (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 8, 2021 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 2, 2021 by Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 9, 2019 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 9, 2019 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 23, 2021 by Richard Pena (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 21, 2019 by bas yves (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 11, 2020 by Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 18, 2020 by sallent pep (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 25, 2018 by Fejul Xeto (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Mar 28, 2022 by Mascaró Salas Mateu (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 15, 2022 by Geoffrey Kahala (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 13, 2021 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 13, 2021 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2020 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Apr 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Bernard TILLY (©)

Taken Apr 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Bernard TILLY (©)

Taken Apr 15, 1998 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Taken May 23, 2021 by Ludovic Lavigne (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.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:648106-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2792827)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ophrys scolopax Cav.)

Specifications

Growth