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
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 |