Naked Man Orchid

Naked Man Orchid Facts

• Firstly, the Naked Man Orchid forms a rather unusual species of orchid, to say the least. Most notably, this image does not include photoshopping and shows exactly why the remarkable plant bears its common name.
• Further, this astonishing flower also remains one of the fortunate ones, compared to many related species. Due to having a sufficient population, it currently lists with the IUCN as a Species of Least Concern.
• However, while it does not rank as endangered at this time, that could change in the very near future. That’s because, quite sadly, the known numbers of the species appear to be declining rapidly, for a variety of reasons.
• Finally, regardless of the current listing of this special species, all orchid varieties are now protected. This protection comes in the form of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). 

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Naked Man Orchid Physical Description

Firstly, the most obvious characteristic of the Naked Man Orchid remains the over-sized lobed lip of every flower. By a rather surprising, and amusing quirk of Nature, this vaguely resembles the general shape of a naked man.

Also, the truly remarkable plant produces a single, comparatively thick stalk. Further, this feature typically attains a height of roughly 20 in (50 cm). In addition, several short, light green leaves may also be present on occasion.

The uniquely shaped flowers of this hermaphroditic plant also appear in comparatively large clusters. Additionally, these most often present varying shades of pink. Furthermore, two dark circles resembling eyes also develop.

But, in a surprising twist of Nature, not every bloom displays the eye-like spots. The reason some do while some do not presently remains a mystery. Further, the plant also produces numerous tubers, which are edible. 

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Phylum: Angiosperms
• Class: Monocots
• Order: Asparagales
• Family: Orchidaceae
• Genus: Orchis
• Species: O. italica

Naked Man Orchid Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The Naked Man Orchid developed as native to the Mediterranean region. The Orchis italica occurs in a large part of that area. This includes Portugal, Spain, Italy, Serbia, Greece, the Aegean islands, Turkey, Cyprus, Malta, Syria, Jordan, and also northern Africa.

Additionally, it also grows at altitudes of up to 4,300 ft (1,300 m), and typically prefers areas of direct sunlight. In addition, the plant also flourishes quite well in a wide range of soil types. This holds true as long as it has adequate drainage.

The incredible Orchis italica also most commonly appears in fertile meadows or regions of light forests. Finally, this astounding plant typically blooms between the months of March and May and usually grows in large groupings.  

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