Bee orchid (original) (raw)

Bee Orchid
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Liliopsida Order: Orchidales Family: Orchidaceae Genus: Ophrys Species: apifera
Binomial name
Ophrys apifera

Ophrys apifera is said to resemble a bee, and this may be used to attract bees to aid in pollination. (apifera means "bee-bearer"). The flower is furry to the touch. The flower is quite variable in the pattern of coloration.