Ophrys kotschyi

Μελισσούι, Οφρύς του Κότσιυ

Etymology of Ophrys kotschyi: The name of the genus "Ophrys" comes from the Αncient Greek word "ὀφρύς" which means "eyebrow" and represents the hairy edge of the flower bud found in many species. The adjective kotschyi was given to the species in honour of Austrian botanist Karl Georg Theodor Kotschy (1813–1866), who first discovered it.

It is estimated that at least 31 Ophrys species, subspecies and hybrids have been discovered in Cypriot nature so far.

This Ophrys is encountered only in Cyprus and in one place in Turkey. Ophrys kotschyi is an unusual plant to encounter. Ophrys kotschyi is considered vulnerable and it is protected by law. Ophrys kotschyi gives flowers from February to April and it is seen at altitudes up to 925 metres. It is said to exist in all the regions of Cyprus except for the ones of Paphos, Akamas and Troodos.