A western Mediterranean plant, ranging from Portugal to Sicily in Europe and in Algeria and Tunisia in N Afica. Also in Malta.
Closely related to O. morio, but with a much longer upturned spur. Typically with the side lobes of the labellum a deep violet, the central part of the labellum pale, with many puplish spots. Found in garigue, maquis, limestone and acid grassland. Ascending to 2000 metres altitude.
Photographs: limestone pasture, NW Sardinia 2005.
© Paul Hackney.