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summer coralroot
Scientific Name: Corallorhiza maculata
Family: Orchidaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Corallorhiza maculata: Spotted Coralroot
Corallorhiza maculata, commonly known as spotted coralroot or summer coralroot, is a fascinating orchid species found across North America. Other common names include western coralroot, speckled coral root, large coral root, and many-flowered coral-root.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Corallorhiza maculata (Raf.) Raf.
- Family: Orchidaceae (Orchid family)
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Taxonomic Rank: Species, with subspecies such as Corallorhiza maculata var. maculata
- Synonyms: Corallorrhiza maculata (Raf.) Raf., and Cladorhiza (as mentioned in a synonym context)
Distribution and Habitat
This orchid's native range covers much of the United States and Canada. It is also found in the Columbia River Gorge of Oregon and Washington and has been spotted in locations such as Minnesota and Alberta, Canada. It can even be found in desert environments, despite orchids typically being associated with more moist habitats.
Morphological Characteristics
- Corallorhiza maculata is a perennial plant, growing up to 0.5 meters (1ft 8in) in height.
- It is in flower from June to August.
- The flowers are hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive parts.
- It is a leafless, chlorophyll-less orchid, obtaining nutrients through a mycotrophic relationship with fungi.
- The flowers are described as irregular and approximately one inch in size, arranged in a raceme.
Ecological Role
As a mycotrophic plant, Corallorhiza maculata relies on specific fungi to obtain energy. These fungal partners procure energy from decomposing matter. This unique adaptation allows it to thrive even without chlorophyll.
Quirky Facts
- Corallorhiza maculata is described as the "most common and largest coralroot," highlighting its prevalence and size compared to other coralroot orchids.
Traditional Uses
- The Navajo, Kayenta people used an infusion of the plant as a lotion for ringworm or other skin diseases.
Further Information
- USDA Plants Database: http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=coma4
- EOL (Encyclopedia of Life): http://eol.org/pages/1092008
- Discover Life: Discover Life's page about Corallorhiza maculata