Sparse-flowered bog orchid facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sparse-flowered bog orchid |
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Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Monocots |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Subfamily: | Orchidoideae |
| Genus: | Platanthera |
| Species: |
P. sparsiflora
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| Binomial name | |
| Platanthera sparsiflora (S.Watson) Schltr.
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The sparse-flowered bog orchid (scientific name: Platanthera sparsiflora) is a special type of orchid. It gets its name because its flowers are spread out, or "sparse," on the stem. This plant loves wet places.
Where It Lives
This orchid grows naturally in the western parts of the United States. You can find it in states like Colorado, New Mexico, California, Washington, and Oregon. It also grows further south in Baja California, Mexico.
It likes to live in damp areas. Look for it in forests and open meadows where the ground stays wet.
What It Looks Like
The sparse-flowered bog orchid has a tall, thin stem that stands straight up. This stem can grow to be about 1.5 feet (0.5 meters) tall.
Near the bottom of the stem, you'll find its longest leaves. These leaves can be up to 6 inches (15 centimeters) long. They are about 1.2 inches (3 centimeters) wide.
The Flowers
The flowers of this orchid are unique. They are spaced far apart on the stem, which is why it's called "sparse-flowered." Each flower is green and looks a bit twisted.
The petals of these flowers can be up to 0.4 inches (1 centimeter) long. They add to the plant's interesting appearance in its wet home.
