Facts About

Accepted Synonyms: Corallorhiza trifida var. verna

Corallorhiza trifida, commonly called Early Coral Root, is broadly distributed across northern and western North America, from Newfoundland to California. In spring or early summer it produces up to 20 pale, yellowish-green to purple-brown flowers, with a white labellum often spotted with purple. The lateral petals and dorsal sepal are connivent and curve hood-like over the column. The stems are glabrous, and vary from 2" to 10" tall. It is found in moist coniferous, deciduous, or mixed forests, and in swamps or bogs. .

Corallorhiza trifida is considered globally secure, although it may be rare in the southern part of its range.

Pollination

This orchid is capable of self-pollination after the flower has opened but insect pollination can occur before and after self-fertilization, although specific pollinator information for this orchid has not been reported.

Ecosystem Type

Alpine or subalpine zones, bogs, disturbed habitats, forests, meadows, swamps, tundra, woodlands

Characteristics

Native to North America

Yes

North American Conservation Status & Distribution