Early Spider Orchid

[Anne Haden]

Dear all,

Some good news!

Early Spider Orchid Ophrys Sphegodes has recently been found in St. Ouen.  It was first found in Jersey by Lester-Garland in 1910 and was last seen in 1929.   The location of this plant is over a kilometre away from the original location so possibly the seed has blown in from France.  Or maybe since the soil around it had been disturbed the seeds were bought up and able to germinate.  As the name suggests this delightful orchid usually flowers earlier than May, but due to the wet weather this year the season is late.  Early Spider Orchid is rare in England and only seen in a few locations along the south coast.  The blue markings on the front of the orchid can vary slightly, but it is these lines that give the 'spidery' look, hence the name. All orchids are  protected plants in Jersey.

Best wishes,

Anne