Etymology of Ophrys apifera var. apifera
The name of the genus "Ophrys" comes from the ancient Greek word "ὀφρύς" that means "eyebrow" and represents the hairy edge of the flower bud found in many species. "Apifera" comes from Latin "apis", meaning "a bee", and "fero", meaning "to bear", which literally means "bearing bees", alluding to the beelike shape of the flowers. "Var." means it's a variety of the species.
Defining the Apiferapifera Variety
Ophrys apifera var. apifera is a specialized botanical variety distinguished by the unique shape of its labellum. While the common Bee Orchid has a rounded lip, this variety features a lip that is noticeably more elongated and narrower. It represents a subtle but distinct morphological departure from the standard form found across the Mediterranean and Europe.
Distinctive Floral Markings
The "speculum" or pattern on the lip of var. apifera often displays more simplified or reduced markings compared to the typical "shield" shape. The coloration remains a rich, dark brown with velvety hairs, but the lack of complex yellow patterning helps specialists identify it. This minimalist design is a key characteristic of the variety.
Global Distribution and Range
This variety is found in several Mediterranean countries, including Italy, Greece, and Turkey, as well as parts of Western Europe like France. It often grows in small, isolated populations alongside the common variety. Its presence across these borders suggests that the mutation causing the elongated lip occurs independently in various climate zones.
Unique Structural Characteristics
A major anatomical trait of var. apifera is the proportion of the side lobes relative to the central lobe. These side lobes are often less pronounced or "tucked," giving the flower a more streamlined, triangular appearance. Despite these physical changes, it retains the S-shaped anther point, allowing it to maintain the species' successful self-pollinating strategy.
Habitat and Soil Preferences
Like its parent species, var. apifera prefers sun-drenched, calcareous soils. You can find it in dry meadows, abandoned olive groves, and scrublands (garrigue). It is highly opportunistic; it may disappear for several years, remaining dormant underground as a tuber, only to reappear when the winter rainfall and spring temperatures provide the perfect conditions.
Ophrys apifera variety apifera in Cyprus
Late flowering orchid, Ophrys apifera blossoms from March till May (the majority of the Ophrys species don't live until May in Cyprus, making this species a long-lasting one). Ophrys apifera appears in southern Cyprus at an altitude of up to 925 metres. It also grows in the Morfou region. Compared to the rest of the Ophrys species, Ophrys apifera is not a popular orchid in Cyprus.
Cypriot names
Μελισσούι, Οφρύς η μελισσοφόρος ποικιλία η μελισσοφόρος
