Flower Properties

Property	Value
English Name	Bee Orchid
MainColor	Magenta
PlantType	Herb
Growth Type	Native
Season	June
ImageUrl	Ophrys-001
Photographer	DP
Location
Human Toxicity	Non_Toxic

Flower Details

Description

One of the UK’s most charming orchids, the Bee Orchid mimics the appearance of a bee to attract pollinators. Flowers are pink with a velvety, bee-like lip. It is locally common but considered vulnerable in some regions due to habitat loss; a true conservation priority species in many areas.

Distribution

Native to Europe and the UK, found on calcareous grasslands, dunes, and disturbed ground. Prefers sunny, open habitats. Growing in front gardens in Chesham

Medicinal/Other Uses

Orchid tubers (salep) were historically used in Middle Eastern and European herbal practices, but this species has no distinct medicinal tradition.

Edibility

Tubers edible when processed as salep, but harvesting is strongly discouraged to protect wild populations.

Human Toxicity

No toxicity reported.

Pet Toxicity

Not Toxic

Active Compounds

Polysaccharides, mucilage, and tannins in tubers.