Orchids aren’t just exotic beauties found in far-away rainforests. Believe it or not, these incredible flowers thrive in nearly every habitat except extreme deserts and polar regions. They are the superstars of the wildflower world: they’re known for their intricate and often spectacular shapes and colors, usually stunning to look at and many have fascinating life histories. This group of plants has intrigued us for thousands of years – inspiring art, poetry and obsession.
There are over 25,000 species of orchids worldwide, found on every continent except Antarctica, with the greatest diversity in tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, Central and South America. Many orchids are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants, especially trees, using them for support but not deriving nutrients from them.
Terrestrial orchids grow in soil and are common in temperate regions. They have various adaptations that allow them to thrive in diverse environments. For example, some have specialized roots that can absorb moisture from the air, while others have tubers or bulbs for storing nutrients. In general, they depend on mycorrhizal fungi for seed germination and nutrient absorption. These fungi often have complex relationships with the surrounding soil and insect communities, forming a web of ecological interactions.
Wild orchids and insects share a fascinating and intricate relationship that is vital for the survival and reproduction of many orchid species. This relationship primarily revolves around pollination, but also includes some unique ecological interactions. Some orchids, such as those in the genus Ophrys, mimic the appearance and scent of female insects (often bees or wasps). Male insects are lured by the mimicry and attempt to mate with the flower (pseudocopulation), inadvertently transferring pollen. Other orchids produce flowers that look and smell like they offer nectar, but in reality, they do not. Insects visit these flowers expecting a reward and end up pollinating the flowers instead.
Some orchids do produce nectar and have developed mutually beneficial relationships with their pollinators. For instance, the flowers of Angraecum sesquipedale (the Darwin orchid) have long spurs filled with nectar, which attract specific moths. The moths get nectar while the orchid ensures its pollination. Last but not least, certain orchids, like those in the genus Coryanthes, have evolved structures that temporarily trap insects. The trapped insects are forced to crawl through narrow passages that ensure they pick up or deposit pollen as they escape.
Greece is home to a remarkable diversity of wild orchids, as boasts over 200 species of wild orchids, which is an impressive number given the country’s size, making it one of the richest countries in Europe for orchid flora. The unique climate, varied topography, and diverse habitats contribute to this richness. The majority of Greek orchids flower in the spring, from March to June, taking advantage of the mild temperatures and adequate moisture before the hot, dry summer sets in.
Here are some of the key territories in Greece where wild orchids thrive:
Mount Olympus
Known as the home of the gods in Greek mythology, Mount Olympus hosts a variety of orchid species. The diverse elevation and habitats, from lowland forests to alpine meadows, support species like Ophrys oestrifera and Orchis simia.
Peloponnese
The Peloponnese peninsula, with its varied landscapes including mountains, coastal regions, and forests, is home to many orchids. Notable areas include Mount Taygetos and the Mani Peninsula, where species like Ophrys ferrum-equinum and Serapias bergonii are found.
Epirus
The Zagori region, known for its traditional villages and stunning landscapes, is also home to a variety of orchids. Forested areas and alpine meadows host species like Orchis simia and Anacamptis pyramidalis.
Crete
Crete is a hotspot for orchid diversity, with many endemic species. The island’s varied habitats, from coastal areas to mountainous regions, support orchids like Ophrys cretica and Orchis sitiaca. The White Mountains (Lefka Ori) and Mount Ida are particularly notable for orchid sightings.
In ancient Greece, orchids were associated with fertility and were used in traditional medicine. The name “orchid” itself comes from the Greek word “orchis,” meaning testicle, due to the shape of the plant’s tubers. Some species of wild orchids are used to make salep, a flour derived from the tubers of orchids, which is then used to make a traditional hot beverage that has been consumed for centuries. In ancient Greece and Rome, it was believed to have medicinal properties, including the ability to improve physical strength and treat digestive issues. It became popular in Ottoman cuisine and continues to be a traditional winter beverage Greece and Turkey.
The tubers are collected in the late spring or early summer after the plant has flowered. They are cleaned, boiled, dried, and then ground into a fine flour. To make the drink, salep flour is mixed with hot milk or water and simmered until it thickens. Sweeteners and flavorings like sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla are often added.
Written by Dimitris Papageorgiou
