June 2008

Calypso

The most beautiful of the many rare plants in Kuusamo is the mysterious Calypso. It is one of the orchids in Finnish nature. Surprisingly, you will find it in a rugged spruce forest around 10-15th of June. In shady spots, you can find it blooming even after midsummer.

The secret behind the location of calypso is the amount of calcium in the ground; the more there is the better. Everyone who sees a Calypso for the first time is surprised by the small size of it. The beauty of the small flower at the end of a 10 cm stem is revealed only at close range.

One or two weeks after the blooming of calypso, the same spot is taken over by a larger and more impressive orchid, the Lady's Slipper.

Technique: Canon EOS V, 70-200mm and 180mm macro, Kodak Ektachrome