SafePlants

Autumn Coralroot (Corallorhiza odontorhiza)

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is small, with flowers only 3-4 mm long, which might be tempting for pets to nibble on.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is small, with flowers only 3-4 mm long, which might be tempting for children to pick or play with.

Common Names

This plant is commonly known as Autumn Coral Root. Other common names include: Late coralroot, Fall coral root, Late southern coral root, Small coral root, Small-flowered coral root, Chicken toe, Turkey claw.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Corallorhiza odontorhiza (Willd.) Poir.
• Family: Orchidaceae (Orchid Family)
• Synonyms:
  • Cymbidium odontorhizon
  • Corallorhiza micrantha Chapm.
• Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies: var. odontorhiza, var. pringlei (Pringle’s Autumn Coralroot)

Distribution and Habitat

• Autumn Coralroot is widely distributed across eastern and central Canada and the United States, from Quebec to [unspecified].
• It is a native woodland orchid that prefers shaded areas.

Ecological Role

• Autumn Coralroot is a saprophyte (or mycoheterotroph), meaning it obtains its nutrients from decaying organic matter rather than through photosynthesis.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a perennial plant growing to approximately 0.4 meters (1 ft 4 in).
• It has a raceme of nondescript, nodding, purple-tinged flowers, about 1/8 inch in size, that may not open fully.
• The flowers are hermaphrodite, containing both male and female reproductive organs.
• Autumn coral-root can be distinguished from other Maine coral-roots by its entire (i.e. unlobed) lip.

Quirky Facts

• The Autumn Coralroot has no green parts.
• Some common names like "Chicken Toe" and "Turkey Claw" may refer to the appearance of its rhizomes.
• The text mentions the Autumn Coralroot is the smallest member of its genus and possesses the least showy flower.

Further Information

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Dave's Garden
• Discover Life
• Florida Natural Areas Inventory