Pyramidal Orchid (Anacamptis pyramidalis) is a very distinctive orchid, due to its pyramid shaped head with dense spikes of pink or sometimes pale purple flowers, which have no scent. Like many orchids, it requires a specific fungus to be present in the soil in order to bloom.
Pyramidal Orchid was originally a plant that grew in limestone or chalky grasslands. But as the years go by it has shown a preferance to grow in more artificial environments, for example it can now be found along motorways and ring roads as well as canals , marinas and even airport grounds. Pyramidal Orchid typically reaches a height of 10 – 25 cm but can reach a maximum if 60 cm. The flowers grow in a tight and compact pyramid shap which is what makes it easily identifiable and is what helped to give this Orchid its name.
The flowers of this plant are more commonly pink but can be purple, or in rare occasions they can also be white. Each flower has 6 etals, 3 small and 3 larger petals. At the back of the flower ther is a tubular spur which is roughly 1.5 m long and the scent from this flower is often referred to as being a “foxy” smell. The leaves are unspotted and shaped like the keel of a boat.
Height: Up to 25cm
Flowering Time: June to August
Preferred Conditions: This Orchid prefers well drained calcareous soil and most often found in long grassland and scrubby areas.
