Neglected Serapias

Serapias neglecta has two sessile, ovoid to globose tubers. The stem grows 10–30 cm tall, with green, unspotted basal sheaths. The short, dense inflorescence bears 2–8 flowers. Bracts are green, often with a purple tinge and are equal to or slightly longer than the flowers. The 25–40 mm flowers have ovate-lanceolate outer perianth segments that are acuminate, concave, and lilac. The inner lateral segments are slightly shorter. The labellum is about three times the length of the other segments, with two dark purple ridges at the base. The lateral lobes are rounded, red or purplish, and partially hidden by the galea. The epichile is as wide as the hypochile, cordate, acuminate, hairy, and ranges from pale to deep yellow, occasionally orange.