Green-Winged Orchid

One of the first orchids in flower is the Green-Winged Orchid (Anacamptis morio). It can be found in dry grasslands, and also on grassy roadsides, sometimes in large amounts. Because it flowers so early, sometimes it has to survive  a freezing cold night. Like now.



No problem!

Hornbeam

The Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) is a forest tree, often found together with oaks. They often form dense woods and seem to like Northern slopes.



Now the new leaves are unfolding.

Spring Cinquefoil

In the same environment as the previous species grows the Spring Cinquefoil (Potentilla verna).


Here its tiny yellow flowers surround a small Western Spider Orchid (Ophrys occidentalis) that likes the same habitat.















  
Seen from nearby the flowers look, except for their color, like miniature Dog roses. No surprise, the Spring Cinquefoil is a member of the Rose family.

Common Ball Flower

In a sunny place small blue balls appear in the sparse vegetation. The Common Ball Flower (Globularia bisnagarica) can be seen from March to May, and sometimes again at the end of the season. The small spoon-like leaves can be found all year round.



This plant is specific to dry calcareous meadows, an environment rich in flowers, especially in spring. If you find the Common Ball Flower, there is a fair chance you'll also find wild orchids.