Cleistesiopsis bifaria (Upland spreading pogonia orchid) [Explore 5-29-2012]

In the upstate of South Carolina (Greenville County), there are a number of Heritage Preserves whose sole reason for existing is to preserve rare wild plants or wild animals.

Recently, I discovered a small population of orchids in one of these preserves. I had not seen it in bloom at this locaton, but I had recognized the shape of the leaves. This orchid is Cleistesiopsis bifaria or Upland spreading pogonia orchid. I was excited to find this particular species, since the closest population I knew about was pretty far away from my home.

This year, I saw several plants in bud, and I knew I was going to be able to photograph it soon.

This species is a bit unusual, in that it grows in the mountain regions of the Carolinas as well as along the Atlantic Coastal Plain. On one of this year's Native Orchid Conference field trips, we were taken to a location in another upstate Heritage Preserve where, to my surprise, it was blooming there! I am certainly thankful that I live in such a richly diverse botanical area...