fly orchid

The fly orchid, scientifically known as Ophrys insectifera, is a species of orchid native to Eurasia and North Africa. These terrestrial orchids are typically less than 30 cm (1 foot) tall and produce several flowers on a single spike.1

A unique characteristic of the fly orchid is its method of pollination, which relies on sexual deception. The flowers are designed to resemble the females of certain insect species, luring male insects with their colors, textures, and even scents. When a male insect attempts to mate with the flower, pollen sacs (pollinia) attach to its body and are transferred to other flowers it visits. This process, called pseudocopulation, benefits the orchid but provides no reward to the male insect. Some species of Ophrys are also referred to as spider orchids due to their flower lips resembling spiders.1