Common name: Madeira Orchid.

Scientific name: Dactylorhiza foliosa (Verm.) Soó

Family: Orchidaceae

Distribution and Habitat: This endemic species of Madeira lives in the Laurissilva, preferentially in moist places, between 500 and 1100 m. The Madeira orchids may be seen in Ribeiro Frio and in Sítio das Ginjas, São Vicente.

Description: This herbaceous plant reaches a height of 20 to 80 cm. It has an erect stem; the leaves are long and have conic blossoms with 10 to 15 purplish pink flowers.

Conservation statute and Threats: Common species, under the statutes ascribed to the Laurissilva forest.

Observations: This species is common along the "levadas" (trails) that cross the Laurissilva. Blooming season is from May to July.