Question: Arthur, I'm trying to ID an orchid; I think it's either Spiranthes cernua or ochroleuca. The labellum bends downward and …
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Question
Arthur, I'm trying to ID an orchid; I think it's either Spiranthes cernua or ochroleuca. The labellum bends downward and is slightly yellow, but I don't know if it's enough to be S. ochroleuca. I took a photo with Ted Elliman's book (ruler), thinking I'd measure the gap between the lateral & upper sepals, but I'm afraid I don't have a clue what to measure. Dedham MA; habitat is a bit unusual, sandy area adjacent to boggy soil - arid wetlands? At least 2 leaves on stem, no basal leaves present.
Answer
Dear stephradner, there is a good chance your plant is Spiranthes ochrolecua. The separation of the lateral sepals from the dorsal petal fits this taxon very well (there is a gap between the narrow perianth segments when viewed from the side). The labellum is usually curved a bit more, but I think part of the issue is that the upper flowers of the inflorescence have just opened (the lower flowers fit for S. ochroleuca). It is difficult to identify these plants when not viewing them in person, so I apologize for any hesitation in the identification. Best wishes.
