Picture of the Day: the Naked Man Orchid

Orchis italica is a fascinating looking orchid commonly known as the Naked Man Orchid. On close examination, it resembles just what its name implies.

This pretty orchid has flowers borne in a dense spike which vary from pale to dark pink. They sometimes have darker spots on the lip and the hood has dark pink veins.

The Naked Man Orchid can grow up to 50 cm in height and is widespread throughout the Mediterranean often forming dense colonies.

Did you also notice that some petals are better endowed than others?