Spiranthes porrifolia Lindl.
Western Ladies' Tresses
Facts About
Accepted Synonyms: Gyrostachys porrifolia, Spiranthes romanzoffiana var. porrifolia
Spiranthes porrifolia, the Western Ladies' Tresses, is restricted to the western states in the US, with its center of distribution in the mountains of northern California. The basal leaves may be present at the time of flowering or may wither as the inflorescence develops. The terminal spike forms a tight spiral of yellow, tubular flowers with the tips of the sepals and petals curving outward. In addition to the flower color, this orchid is distinguished by the prominent calluses at the base of the lip. A permanent source of water is an important component of this orchid's habitat. It grows in full sun in damp meadows and along streams and can be found in seep areas on steep, rocky cliffs.
Although Spiranthes porrifolia is apparently secure, especially in California where portions of its range are protected within state and national parks, it is considered imperiled in Idaho and Washington.
Pollination
Pollinator information for this orchid has not been reported.
Ecosystem Type
Bogs, fens, marshes, meadows, seeps, stream bank
Characteristics
- Habitat:
- terrestrial
- Leaf arrangement:
- basal
- Number of leaves on stem:
-
- three
- four
- five
- Form of the labellum:
- the labellum is not pouch-like
- Labellum outline:
- the labellum is simple
- Main color of labellum:
- yellow
- Nectar spur:
- absent
- Inflorescence type:
- the inflorescence is a spike
- Labellum characteristics:
- the labellum is simple
- Labellum length:
- 4–9.5 mm
- Sepal length:
- 4.6–11 mm
- Plant height:
- 10–75 cm
Native to North America
Yes
North American Conservation Status & Distribution
Conservation Status
| Conservation and Wetland Status | |
|---|---|
| Global Rank | Apparently Secure |
| US Status | N/A |
| Canadian Status | N/A |