Orchis

Orchis is a genus of terrestrial orchids, subtribe Orchidinae, subfamily Orchidoideae, family Orchidaceae, distinguished from many related genera by growing from root tubers rather than pseudobulbs; as of September 2024, Plants of the World Online recognizes 22 accepted species along with numerous subspecies and 37 hybrid species. The genus name derives from Ancient Greek for testicle, referencing the appearance of its paired subterranean tuberoids. Plants produce erect stems bearing cylindrical to globular flower spikes 5 to 15 centimeters long, with flowers ranging from yellow to red and purple; most species flower progressively upward from the base, the notable exception being the monkey orchid, which flowers in reverse. Orchis occurs mainly across Europe and northwest Africa, extending as far as Tibet, Mongolia and Xinjiang.