Lizard Orchid

Description:

Lizard orchid is robust perennial herbaceous plant, this one reaching height of some 80cm. It has numerous greyish-green leaves that appear in autumn, persist over winter and then wither when it flowers. The inflorescence is cylindrical and fairly dense. From far away, flowers are rather discreet, mainly greenish and unattractive unless you are trying to look for details... When inspecting from a close range, I found them spectacular - they are greenish edged in purple, sepals and petals in a helmet shape, sporting a very elongated and coiled labellum. It has a reputation of characteristically strong, goat-like odour (giving it it's name in French) but I must admit I did not sensed it, even though I was quite close to the flower...

Habitat:

In a dry meadow at Voltaire's castle, periphery of an settlement, close to agricultural fields.

Notes:

Relatively common in France, in lower and hotter regions, and seems in expansion. However, first time spotting for me...