Polystachya concreta (Jacq.) Garay & H.R. Sweet

Yellow Helmet Orchid

Facts About

Accepted Synonyms: Callista flavescens, Epidendrum concretum, Polystachya flavescens

Polystachya concreta, commonly known as the Yellow Helmet Orchid, is widely distributed throughout much of the subtropical and tropical areas of the world including the southern counties of Florida. This orchid produces 2-5 thin, lanceolate-linear leaves from the tip of a pseudobulb and 10-60 non-resupinate, waxy flowers that are arranged on a panicle. The labellum is pale yellow with a white pubescent crest at the base. This orchid can usually be found on the trunks and branches of many tree species in open woodlands, cypress swamps, in hammocks and mangroves.

Polystachya concreta is apparently secure because of its wide distribution across the world but is considered endangered in Florida.

Pollination

This orchid is pollinated by halictid bees, such as Dialictus creberrimus, which visit the flower to collect lip hairs known as pseudopollen.

Ecosystem Type

Swamps, woodlands

Characteristics

Habitat:
epiphyte
Leaf arrangement:
  • basal
  • stem
Number of leaves on stem:
  • two
  • three
  • four
  • five
Form of the labellum:
the labellum is not pouch-like
Labellum outline:
the labellum is lobed
Main color of labellum:
  • green to brown
  • yellow
Nectar spur:
absent
Inflorescence type:
the inflorescence is a panicle
Labellum characteristics:
the labellum is lobed
Labellum length:
2–5 mm
Sepal length:
2–6 mm
Plant height:
Up to 100 cm
Show All Characteristics

Native to North America

Yes

North American Conservation Status & Distribution

Conservation Status

Select a location to view conservation status:

Conservation and Wetland Status
Global Rank Apparently Secure
US Status N/A
Canadian Status N/A

North America Distribution

Adapted from USDA data