Bletia arizonica (S.Watson) Sosa & M.W. Chase
Arizona Crested Coral Root
Facts About
Accepted Synonyms: Corallorhiza arizonica, Hexalectris arizonica, Hexalectris spicata var. arizonica
Bletia arizonica, the Arizona Crested Coral Root, is restricted to the southwest and was formerly described as a self-pollinating variety of the more widespread Bletia spicata. The leafless, pinkish-brown stem of B. arizonica has tan to brown flowers that lack a rostellum which helps to distinguish this species from other members of the genus. The flower, which may only partially open, has a 3-lobed labellum with five reddish-purple crests along the entire length of the central lobe. This orchid is rarely found out in the open but prefers wooded areas including the sides of canyons and canyon bottoms.
Bletia arizonica is considered vulnerable throughout its range and is usually found as widely scattered individuals, rarely forming small colonies.
Pollination
The flowers of this orchid lack a rostellum and are autogamous.
Ecosystem Type
Woodlands
Characteristics
- Habitat:
- terrestrial
- Leaf arrangement:
- this plant has no leaves
- Form of the labellum:
- the labellum is not pouch-like
- Labellum outline:
- the labellum is lobed
- Main color of labellum:
- yellow
- Nectar spur:
- absent
- Inflorescence type:
- the inflorescence is a raceme
- Labellum characteristics:
- the labellum is lobed
- Labellum length:
- 14–16 mm
- Plant height:
- 15–70 cm
Native to North America
Yes
North American Conservation Status & Distribution
Conservation Status
| Conservation and Wetland Status | |
|---|---|
| Global Rank | Vulnerable |
| US Status | N/A |
| Canadian Status | N/A |