Anacamptis coriophora aka Bug Orchid

Anacamptis coriophora is a ground-growing orchid known as bug orchid. It belongs to the orchid family, Orchidaceae. Its native range runs from the Mediterranean region to Iran. Kew describes its climate as subtropical. The RHS lists it as non-native to Britain and Ireland. The older name Orchis coriophora appears in plant references. The RHS confirms that name as a synonym.

This small plant grows from an underground tuber. Plants For A Future gives its height as 1 foot [0.3 metres]. It records flowering from April to June. Each flower has both male and female organs. Flies and beetles pollinate the flowers. Its wild habitats include pastures and marshes in hills and mountains. These sites range from dry ground to damp ground. The same source notes that it often grows on acid soils.

In gardens, it needs full sun and prefers moist soil. Plants For A Future recommends a moist, sandy loam. It also lists sand, loam, and clay as suitable soils. Its stated pH range covers mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline conditions. The source gives USDA hardiness zones 4–8. It suggests lawns and meadows as garden settings. Its small size suits low planting where flowers remain in view.

Seed raising depends on a close bond with soil fungi. The tiny seeds hold very little stored food. Fungal tissue supplies food during their early growth. Plants For A Future advises sowing seed on the surface. It recommends fresh seed and compost that stays moist. This need for a fungal partner matters when raising plants. The source lists no weed potential for the species.

Plants For A Future records cooked tubers as an edible part. Drying and grinding them produces a powder called salep. This powder has been used in drinks, bread, and cereals. The source also records traditional medicinal uses for salep. Its mucilage forms a jelly when mixed with water. Traditional uses include soothing irritation in the digestive tract. These records describe past uses, not proof of medical benefit. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards. That statement does not establish safety for every person or pet.