Adriatic lizard orchid

An exceptionally rare and protected orchid species. A true botanical beauty that can be found on the steep meadow slopes above the Sopota Valley.

• an exceptionally rare orchid species
• a protected plant species
• in the wild, it grows only in Slovenia, Italy, Austria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia

Himantoglossum adriaticum, commonly known as the Adriatic lizard orchid, is an orchid species found in the wild only in Slovenia, Italy, Austria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. It typically thrives in warmer habitats near the Adriatic Sea, though it can also be found in other locations protected from low temperatures.

Where can it be found here and how can it be recognised?

In the Municipality of Radeče, it grows on the steep grassy slopes above the Sopota Valley. The orchid blooms during the summer months, with each plant bearing more than ten pale flowers marked by crimson stripes. From the flowers extends an unusually long, twisted lip resembling a lizard's tail.

Because the Adriatic lizard orchid is extremely rare and endangered throughout Europe, it is classified as a protected species.