Spiranthes stellata P.M.Br., Dueck & K.M.Cameron
Star Shaped Spiranthes
Facts About
There are no synonyms for this orchid.
Spiranthes stellata, the Star Shaped Spiranthes, is widespread in the Sierra Nevada range in California and has been reported in southern Oregon. Once considered a variety of S. romanzoffiana, this orchid has distinctive morphological and molecular traits that support its recognition as a separate species. The inflorescence is a spike of loosely spaced, white star-shaped flowers with pointed, wide spreading sepals and petals. The white oval labellum tapers to the apex, often suffused with pale green or yellow in the center. The thick tuberous roots descend rather than spread out horizontally and the bud for next season is apparent, adjacent to the current season's growth. This orchid is widespread and common in the wet meadows of the Sierra Nevada and often forms dense colonies.
The conservation status for Spiranthes stellata has not been reported.
Ecosystem Type
Fens, meadows
Characteristics
- Habitat:
- terrestrial
- Leaf arrangement:
- basal
- Number of leaves on stem:
-
- four
- five
- six
- Form of the labellum:
- the labellum is not pouch-like
- Labellum outline:
- the labellum is simple
- Main color of labellum:
- white
- Nectar spur:
- absent
- Inflorescence type:
- the inflorescence is a spike
- Labellum characteristics:
- the labellum is saccate
- Labellum length:
- 4.5–10 mm
- Sepal length:
- 5–12 mm
- Plant height:
- 15–45 cm
Native to North America
Yes
North American Conservation Status & Distribution
Conservation Status
| Conservation and Wetland Status | |
|---|---|
| Global Rank | N/A |
| US Status | N/A |
| Canadian Status | N/A |