Malaxis spicata Sw.
Florida Adder's Mouth
Facts About
Accepted Synonyms: Malaxis floridana, Microstylis floridana
Malaxis spicata, commonly known as Florida Adder's Mouth, has a limited distribution in the southeastern United States, from Virginia to Florida. It produces 2-3 glossy basal or lower stem leaves and up to 150 small, non-resupinate flowers, which range in color from yellowish green to brown to orange-tinted. The lateral petals are strongly curved and cross behind the column, forming a slight hood. It is found in swamps and wet woodlands, where it is primarily terrestrial but is known to be semi-epiphytic in southern Florida, where it attaches to logs and stumps.
Malaxis spicata is globally considered secure, but is critically imperiled in both of the Carolinas and in Georgia.
Pollination
Pollinator information for this orchid has not been reported but flower morphology suggests fungus gnats.
Ecosystem Type
Bogs, floodplains, shrublands or thickets, swamps, woodlands
Characteristics
- Habitat:
-
- epiphyte
- terrestrial
- Leaf arrangement:
-
- basal
- stem
- Number of leaves on stem:
-
- two
- three
- Form of the labellum:
- the labellum is not pouch-like
- Labellum outline:
- the labellum is simple
- Main color of labellum:
-
- green to brown
- orange
- yellow
- Nectar spur:
- absent
- Inflorescence type:
- the inflorescence is a raceme
- Labellum characteristics:
- the labellum is simple
- Labellum length:
- Up to 4 mm
- Sepal length:
- 2.5–3 mm
- Plant height:
- 7–45 cm
Native to North America
Yes
North American Conservation Status & Distribution
Conservation Status
| Conservation and Wetland Status | |
|---|---|
| Global Rank | Apparently Secure |
| US Status | N/A |
| Canadian Status | N/A |