Spiranthes delitescens Sheviak

Canelo Hills Ladies' Tresses

Facts About

There are no synonyms for this orchid.

Spiranthes delitescens, the Canello Hills Ladies’ Tresses, is endemic to southeast Arizona and grows in marshy areas known as cienegas. This tall, slender orchid has 5-10 grass-like leaves that are present at the time of flowering. Fine hairs occur on the upper portion of the stem and the white flowers occupy a relatively small portion of the total inflorescence. This orchid can be distinguished from other Spiranthes by its tubular flowers curving into a horizontal apex with wide-spreading lateral sepals and linear petals. All known populations of S. delitescens occur in cienegas characterized by gentle gradients, slow flowing water and small drainage areas with finely grained, organic soils.

Spiranthes delitescens is listed as endangered, and considered critically imperiled. In addition to grazing pressure, this orchid is threatened by the loss of its cienega habitat from growing water demands and associated diversions and impoundments.

Pollination

Pollinator information for this orchid has not been reported.

Ecosystem Type

Marshes

Characteristics

Habitat:
terrestrial
Leaf arrangement:
basal
Main color of labellum:
white
Nectar spur:
absent
Inflorescence type:
the inflorescence is a spike
Labellum characteristics:
the labellum is simple
Labellum length:
58–79 mm
Sepal length:
6.5–8 mm
Plant height:
24–47.5 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 Critically Imperiled
US Status Listed Endangered
Canadian Status N/A

North America Distribution

Adapted from USDA data