Gymnadeniopsis (Platanthera) integra (Yellow fringeless orchid)

One of the main reasons for going to the Green Swamp during late summer orchid season is to photograph the beautiful, Yellow fringeless orchid. This year, there were at least a hundred plants blooming on Big Island Savannah. Some few were a bit past peak bloom, but most of them were just perfect. Seeing so many of them at one location might make one think that this species is common, but it is quite scarce.

The scape is generally 2-4 inches tall -- smaller than Crested fringed orchid and much smaller than Yellow fringed orchid. Interestingly enough, all three were blooming during at this site during our visit.

Along for the ride were Skip Pudney, Alan Cressler, Chris Davidson, Kelvin Taylor, Joe Rone, and yours truly. Although it was misting rain for most of the day, the light was perfect, and there was no wind!