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Habitats
Native orchid species are a significant feature of the flora at the Aesthetic Forest, on the west side of Mt. Hymettos. However, such species diversity across many locations, is unprecedented for the NTUA campus which is closer to the urban center of Athens.
Orchids can thrive in a spectrum of habitats. The sites in the NTUA campus where they were observed, correspond to the following vegetation/landscape types:
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pinus woodland
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olive groves
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carob groves
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open phrygana
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grassy places
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rocky places
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moist grounds
The adaptability of some species is remarkable, as they are found growing on the sides of the roads and on narrow parking islands in the campus.
A few sites with their characteristics are described in the following images. As the exploration continues, it becomes clearer which terrain patterns are more promising.
Small olive and carob groves along the roadside. A form of shallow stream favors water retention. The sides of the pathway host hundreds of orchid plants.
Ophrys tenthredinifera
Ophrys umbilicata
Amid the grass land, tall orchid plants (Orchis italica) are more easily spotted. They are accompanied by numerous Ophrys plants.
A meadow with Himantoglossum robertianum and Orchis italica. In the background trees of Parkinsonia aculeata. The open area is surrounded by evergreen and deciduous trees.
Open space surrounded by cypress and pine trees, near the Laboratory for Earthquake Engineering. Observations and mapping of Himantoglossum robertianum, Ophrys lutea, Orchis italica.
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