SafePlants

Bentley's Coralroot (Corallorhiza bentleyi)

Corallorhiza bentleyi, commonly known as Bentley's Coralroot, is a rare orchid species found in specific regions of the eastern United States.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Corallorhiza bentleyi Freudenstein
• Family: Orchidaceae
• Rank: Species
• Common Names: Bentley's Coralroot, Bentley's Coralroot Orchid
• Genus: Corallorhiza Gagnebin

Distribution and Habitat

• This orchid is primarily found in deciduous forests of the mountains of Virginia and West Virginia.
• Its range is restricted to a limited number of sites, approximately 12 or 13, across several counties in these states.
• Specific locations mentioned include Monongahela National Forest in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, and Bath County.

Ecological Role

• Corallorhiza bentleyi is a saprophytic orchid, meaning it obtains nutrients from decaying organic matter rather than through photosynthesis.
• Fungal host utilization is important for this species.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a forb/herb in growth habit.
• It has a chasmogamous form.

Conservation Status

• This plant has a global rating of G1/G2 and a state rating of S1, indicating its rarity.
• It may impact individuals but is not likely to cause a trend toward federal listing or loss of viability.

Quirky Facts

• Corallorhiza bentleyi was only recently discovered in 1999.
• The plant is named after Stanley Bentley, in honor of his many years of nature study and botanical discoveries. He found it!

Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Corallorhiza bentleyi.
• Encyclopedia of Life contains articles about Corallorhiza bentleyi.
• Dave's Garden has information and tips from gardeners about this plant.