Gymnadenia conopsea

Quick Characteristics:

Gymnadenia conopsea (L.) R.Br. is a widespread species in northern Europe and northern Asia, but is also reported to have naturalized in Connecticut. The common name, fragrant orchid, may not be very creative, but fits the plants well: tall loose spikes of long spurred pink or rarely white flowers, accompanied by long, glossy leaves are easily identified as an orchid, and the pleasant smell reminds of cloves. The tight, long spur limits the availability of nectar to butterflies. Like many Gymnadenia species, this species likes limestone grassland or calcareous marshes and full sun to light shade, as long as the soil doesn't dry out completely. Pictures by Martin Bohnet from plants in habitat on the Swabian Alp, southern Germany.