Himantoglossum robertianum

Quick Characteristics:

Himantoglossum robertianum (Loisel.) P.Delforge, syn. Barlia robertiana is the exception to the rule in Himantoglossum, as its flowers lack the elongated labellum and share the proportions of many Orchis- or Dactylorhiza species, although the individual flowers are larger. The whole plant gives a feeling of massiveness, resulting in being called Giant Orchid without being all that taller than other species. The species spreads around the western Mediterranean but also occurs at Lake Garda, Italy, indicating some frost tolerance. The sweetly scented flowers appear in spring and vary in color from light pink to deep purple. The photos show a plant cultivated by Martin Bohnet under frost-free glass.