Himantoglossum robertsiana

Himantoglossum robertianum (synonym Barlia robertiana), the giant orchid, is a robust terrestrial orchid from the Mediterranean basin, growing in garrigue, grassland and roadside verges. A rosette of broad, glossy leaves precedes a tall stem bearing a dense spike of numerous large, fragrant flowers, ranging from dark pink veined with purple to greenish white depending on the population. Flowering is very early, from January to April. It grows in well-drained, calcareous soil, in sun to part shade, and does not transplant easily.