Mediterranean region, but exact limits unclear because of uncertainty as to the limits of the taxon.
Similar to Ophrys fusca (perhaps merely a subspecies of it), but generally a bigger plant, with larger flowers and larger, shiny metallic blue speculum. Ophrys eleonorae is a segregate found in Sardinia and Corsica. See also Ophrys israelitica. In scrub, maquis, garigue, olive groves, pine woods.
Photographs: Cyprus 2004.
© Paul Hackney.
Click photographs for larger image.