Orchid on the Ground

You easily might overlook toothpetal false reinorchid (Habenaria floribunda) when it is not in flower. This terrestrial orchid flowers in the winter and early spring, and it is currently flowering at the South Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area (shown below) …

When flowering, this orchid can be more than15″ tall. Note how the alternate basal leaves, usually 5 to 12 in number, clasp the stem.

Its flowers are small and abundant. The species name, floribunda, comes from the Latin words flores (flowers) and abundant (abundant). The sepals are greenish in color, and the petals and lip tend to be lighter green. Populations in south Florida tend to be more yellowish. The flowers at the bottom of the raceme (flower stalk) open first, and flowering progresses to the top. The seeds are tiny and are spread by the winds.

This tropical orchid grows throughout peninsular Florida, the West Indies, Central America, and South America. In Florida you will find it growing in partial shade in moist to wet swamps and hardwood forests. It is one of the most common terrestrial orchid in Florida.

Be on the lookout for this “winter wonder”!