Distribution of the species
Although it is relatively common in other parts of Northern Greece, it is quite rare on Mt. Paggaio. So far it has been recorded in a very small number of sites, which are around the area of the peaks, in the area of Nikisiani and near Eleftheroupoli. Observed in isolated individuals or small groups.
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
Poorly represented on Mt. Paggaio. It is a spindly plant (up to 45 cm) with lanceolate to ovate, glaucous leaves that form a rosette. The inflorescence is dense and short, composing of 10-50 small-sized flowers. The sepals and petals are lanceolate, acuminate, pinkish, reddish, rarely white with reddish nerves, forming a hood. The lip is 3-lobed, of the same color or slightly paler than the hood, with papillose violet or purplish dots. The lateral lobes vary in shape: elongated, nearly spatulate, with rounded edges; the median lobe is longer and wider than the lateral ones, broadly spatulate or sometimes entire or bilobed. In this case, the secondary lobes are short, nearly rhomboidal, rarely toothed or separated by a tooth. The spur is pale, cylindrical, bent downwards. It is mostly found in well-lit habitats (arid land, scrubs, forest openings, subalpine grasslands) and to a lesser degree in pine forests. Probably the orchid with the highest altitudinal range, occurring from sea level to the tops of high mountains.
In the past, this species was also used to produce salep, which probably led to its disappearance from various areas. Continuation of this activity will be harmful for its populations.
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 “Other Important Plant Species of Greece” by the 92/43/EEC Directive. Moreover, it is protected by CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).