Calypso Orchid

Due to their size, calypso orchids can be easily missed, as they blend nicely into their surroundings. One of the meanings of Calypso in Greek is “concealed,” which reflects the flower’s preference for growing in sheltered areas on conifer forest floors.

This year, I seem to find them wherever I go, starting in the latter half of May. They range from 8 to 20 cm in height and are typically found in moist forests with cool, rich soils containing decaying leaves and wood. Their range extends from sea level to mid-montane elevations.

They have a circumpolar distribution, occurring across Europe, Asia, and North America. Interestingly, they offer no nectar to their pollinators—mainly bumblebees—but by the time the bees realize this, they have already done their job.

Calypso Orchid

 I took this picture few weeks ago while walking through the forest serching for birds. They were small pathes scatterd on the forest ground, whenever I came across one I would take few pictures. From that morning walk, I got few okay pictures of birds but much better pictures of this beautiful floewer.

Until next moment,

Amar

Calypso Orchid

I have been seeing this beautiful flower, calypso orchid, along the hiking trails in montane forests. Sometimes one or two, in other cases 40 to 50 in a bunch. To have this small, 10 to 14 cm in height orchid stand out in a picture, you have to get on the ground and get the lens close to the flower to fill the frame. Bringing out the pinkish-purple colour.

Until next moment,

Amar

Calypso Orchid

I was on my knees in the middle of a coniferous forest, taking pictures of Calypso Orchids. As I snapped away, felt as if someone else was near me, watching me. But could see no one when I looked around. Bent down again to take pictures of these small flower, which invite bees with their look. Who after cross-pollinating one or more of these beautiful orchids, find out they contain no nectar. Calypso is a Greek name for concealment, something it does well.  I was done taking pictures but  still felt someone else was in the forest, perhaps my spidey sense need some work.

Until next moment,

Amar