Vénus's slipper

A vast family that, according to some authors, comprises more than 25,000 species. Throughout their evolution, orchids have adapted to the presence of insects to ensure pollination, using shape, color, pattern, scent, and other traps. Some, such as the Lady’s Slipper, trap visiting insects that fall into the slipper, forcing them to exit via a path that brings them into contact with the flower’s reproductive parts. Later, once the seeds have formed, they are released by the thousands. These seeds can only germinate thanks to a microscopic fungus they find in the soil, which provides them with an external source of nutrients until the plant can sustain itself. This magnificent flower has three often-colored sepals (see photo) and three petals. Two of the petals are more or less atrophied, while the third, on the contrary, is highly developed and forms the labellum (or slipper).  All of them are meant to be picked…only with your eyes!