Greater purple fringed orchid facts for kids
The greater purple fringed orchid (scientific name: Platanthera grandiflora) is a beautiful and somewhat rare wild flower. It's a type of orchid, known for its stunning purple flowers that look like they have fringes. This special plant grows in parts of North America, from Canada all the way down to the Appalachian Mountains in the United States.
Quick facts for kids Greater purple fringed orchid |
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| Flower of Platanthera grandiflora | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Platanthera
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| Species: |
grandiflora
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What It Looks Like
The greater purple fringed orchid gets its name from its unique flowers. Each flower has petals that look like they have been cut into many thin strips, giving them a "fringed" appearance. These flowers are usually a vibrant purple color.
The plant can grow quite tall, sometimes reaching over a meter (about 3 feet) in height. Its leaves are typically broad and green, growing along the stem. The flowers grow in a cluster at the top of the stem, forming a beautiful spike.
Where It Lives
This orchid species is found in specific areas of North America. Its main home stretches from Ontario in Canada, eastward to Newfoundland. In the United States, it grows south along the Appalachian Mountains. You can find it as far south as northeastern Georgia. There is also a small, separate group of these orchids living in Illinois.
These orchids prefer moist, boggy areas or wet meadows. They often grow in places where the soil is rich and there is plenty of sunlight or partial shade.
Conservation Status
Unfortunately, the greater purple fringed orchid is not as common as it once was in some places. It is considered "imperiled" in several U.S. states. This means it is at risk of disappearing from those areas.
States where it is imperiled include Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina. Efforts are made to protect its natural habitats. This helps ensure these beautiful orchids can continue to grow and thrive for future generations.
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