Showy Orchis (Galearis spectabilis)

Orchidaceae Family

An erect raceme of 2 to 10 flowers, each ¾ to 1 inch long. Sepals and lateral petals form an arching purple to pink hood. The lower lip is white, broad with ruffled edges. An interesting club-shaped (clavate) spur is behind the flower.

Leaves: There are 2 leaves basal, oval, often nearly orbicular, 3 to 8 inches long and up to 3½ inches wide. Stem and leaves are hairless.

Notes: The leaves resemble those of some members of the Lily family, like Bluebead Lily, but the flowers have no resemblance to any lily. This is one species I would want to come across more.

Photographic Location: Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area