Serapias ?? sp5

The precise species of this Serapias (labelled sp5 on the original tag) could not be confirmed; the description is therefore given at genus level. Serapias comprises some fifteen tuberous terrestrial orchids native around the Mediterranean, growing in damp meadows, fallow ground and coastal garrigue. Ovoid tubers give rise to a rosette of lanceolate leaves and a 15–40 cm stem bearing a loose spike of the genus's characteristic tubular flowers, with an elongated, tongue-shaped lip ranging from pale yellow to dark reddish-brown depending on the species. Flowering occurs in spring. It requires cool to well-drained soil, a sunny position, and dry summer dormancy.