Search for rosettes continues

Last weekend I came to see the rosettes of the Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) in Leeuwarden. By far this is the most northern station of the species. Although in 2008 someone reported a specimen on the isle of Texel.

It was in 2006 when Hinko Talsma first discovered flowering plants in a road verge. The following year's the plants flowered. Mr. Talsma also contacted the muncipality of Leeuwarden because their present management was inadequate. Although the muncipality was brought up to date of the findings the contracter -who actually executes the measures- decided to mow when plants were flowering.

Hinko was so kindly to show me the road verge were we soon located five rosettes. The individuals were spread out over two road verges. Below is a picture included of one of the rosettes.

Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) on a road verge in Leeuwarden