In Greek mythology, Orchis was the son of a nymph and a satyr. He attempted to rape a priestess and was torn to shreds by wild beasts for his efforts. He was then transformed into a slender plant – the orchid.
It was also thought that orchid roots would help Greek women control the sex of their unborn children. The father ate the large tubers in order to have a son and the mother ate the small tubers to have a daughter.
The Blooms
The Algarve is home to a large diversity of wild orchids totalling close to 30 species. This is due largely to the existence of a major limestone feature, known as the Barrocal. This endemic-rich region is respected as one of the most important areas in Europe for plant diversity.
From mid-February until the end of May the wild orchids of the Algarve flourish, peppering the area with their beautiful blooms. From the coastal regions up into the hillsides, orchids can be found in profusion. However, Autumn’s Lady’s Tresses only start to bloom in September and last until the end of December.
Many of the species take more than five years to bloom and last for decades if undisturbed. The density of the growth of the orchids in some areas, make it impossible to tread in their space without doing damage, so care is advised for all would be photographers.
Wild orchids are a protected species in Portugal; indeed, this is so throughout the EU. Hopefully this will deter people digging up or cutting down these stunning wonders of nature that are for everybody’s enjoyment.
Do you have wild orchids where you live?
Brought to you by Meravista – the place where smart people search for Algarve property for sale.
Wild Orchids in the Algarve
by Sun’s Dragon
Did you know?
In Greek mythology, Orchis was the son of a nymph and a satyr. He attempted to rape a priestess and was torn to shreds by wild beasts for his efforts. He was then transformed into a slender plant – the orchid.
It was also thought that orchid roots would help Greek women control the sex of their unborn children. The father ate the large tubers in order to have a son and the mother ate the small tubers to have a daughter.
The Blooms
The Algarve is home to a large diversity of wild orchids totalling close to 30 species. This is due largely to the existence of a major limestone feature, known as the Barrocal. This endemic-rich region is respected as one of the most important areas in Europe for plant diversity.
From mid-February until the end of May the wild orchids of the Algarve flourish, peppering the area with their beautiful blooms. From the coastal regions up into the hillsides, orchids can be found in profusion. However, Autumn’s Lady’s Tresses only start to bloom in September and last until the end of December.
Many of the species take more than five years to bloom and last for decades if undisturbed. The density of the growth of the orchids in some areas, make it impossible to tread in their space without doing damage, so care is advised for all would be photographers.
Wild orchids are a protected species in Portugal; indeed, this is so throughout the EU. Hopefully this will deter people digging up or cutting down these stunning wonders of nature that are for everybody’s enjoyment.
Do you have wild orchids where you live?
Brought to you by Meravista – the place where smart people search for Algarve property for sale.