News in Brief – A Bee Orchid
Go backAn ophrys apifera was recently spotted in the wild flower meadow at Churchfield Court, Girton. The orchid is tiny with an intriguing flower that our Garden Adviser Charles Gilchrist describes as somewhat swollen and shaped like a brown and yellow bee. Originally pollinated by a small bee attracted by its shape, the plants are now self-pollinating, as the particular bee concerned is extinct in England. Its conservation status is unclear as, whilst it is thought to be relatively rare and protected, it may be on the increase in some parts of the country.