This plant gets its name from the shape of its flower. Although resembling a bee it does not use bees as its main method of pollination. The usual way is by self-pollination; unsurprisingly this has led to many weird forms, some of which are noticeable for their lack of colour. Although these orchids are sometimes difficult to find they are not rare and bee orchids can be found throughout Europe, in N. Africa and the Near East.

These orchids are mysterious in their appearance. They will pop-up on disturbed chalk soils in huge numbers between March and July, linger for a few years and then vanish. This has led to them being greeted as celebrities when first spotted at a new site.