Distribution of the species
On Mt. Paggaio, its population has suffered an intense decline due to overcollection for the preparation of the winter drink “salep”. However, despite this reduction, we will usually find it in the subalpine grasslands and forest openings in the mountainous zone, at altitudes above 1,200 m asl.
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
On Mt. Paggaio, its population consists of a large number of plants. Its leaves are broadly lanceolate and grow at the base of the stem. Flowers are color-dimorphic, forming a dense and oval inflorescence. They are yellow or reddish-purple, with a slight scent of elder (Sambucus sp.). The lateral sepals are described as divergent to vertically erect, oval, with curved edges. The dorsal sepal is nearly equal, forming a hood with the petals. The lip is 3-lobed to nearly entire, oval, slightly convex, with red spots on the center, often with pleated margins. The spur is robust, nearly cylindrical to conical, descendent, curving downwards and parallel to the ovary. It grows in dry habitats, mainly in subalpine grasslands, openings of mountainous forests, as well as in pine forests. It usually forms large colonies, impressive due to the dimorphism in the color of its plants. However, as it is one of the species most commonly used to make salep, a large number of its populations have been significantly declined or have become extinct. It flowers from May to June.
There has been a decrease in its population due to overcollection for salep production. Thus, overcollection will lead to a drastic reduction of its population. Restrictions should be imposed by the local Forest Authorities.
Conservation status
It is listed among the plant species of the Presidential Degree 67/81 (F.E.K. 23/Α/30-01-1981).
Conservation state
It is listed among the plant species of the Presidential Degree 67/81 (F.E.K. 23/Α/30-01-1981) “On the protection of native flora and fauna and defining a procedure for coordinating and controlling their research”, also as On Mt. Paggaio, its population consists of a large number of plants. Its leaves are broadly lanceolate and grow at the base of the stem. Moreover, it is protected by CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).