SafePlants

Calopogon: The Grass Pink Orchid

The genus Calopogon, commonly known as grass pink, belongs to the orchid family (Orchidaceae). The name originates from the Greek term meaning "beautiful beard," referencing a specific feature of the flower.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions grass-like leaves. Consider the possibility of cats being drawn to these leaves.

Considerations for Children

• Some species grow to 2 1/2 – 4 feet tall.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Calopogon
• Common Name: Grass Pink
• Family: Orchidaceae (Orchid family)
• Synonyms:
  • Calopogon pulchellus
  • Cymbidium pulchellum
  • Limodorum
• Species Examples:
  • Calopogon tuberosus (Tuberous Grass Pink)
  • Calopogon multiflorus (Many-flowered Grass Pink)
  • Calopogon oklahomensis (Oklahoma Grass Pink or Prairie Grass Pink)

Distribution and Habitat

• The genus Calopogon is restricted to the United States.
• Calopogon tuberosus has the broadest range of any species within the genus, found across much of eastern Canada and the United States, ranging as far southwest as Texas.
• Calopogon multiflorus is found in the southeastern United States, specifically in the coastal plains of Alabama, Florida, and Maryland's Eastern Shore.
• Calopogon oklahomensis is native to the United States.
• Grass pink orchids thrive in open boggy soils and meadows.
• Specific locations mentioned include Barnum Bog at the Paul Smiths VIC in the Adirondacks and select grasslands.

Morphological Characteristics

• Grass pink orchids are named for their long, narrow, grass-like leaves.
• They grow to a height of 2 1/2 – 4 feet tall.
• They feature 2 or more flowers arranged along the stalk.
• Flowers are typically vibrant pink, but rare albino forms with white flowers exist.
• The flowers are irregular, 1 to 1 inch in size, and have 6 parts.
• Leaves are opposite, linear, keeled, waxy, and gray in color, ranging from 1-4 inches long.

Flowering Period

• Grass pink orchids emerge in March in the south and July in the north.
• Tuberous Grass Pink flowers bloom from mid-June to late July.

Quirky Facts

• The generic name Calopogon means "beautiful beard" in Greek, referring to a specific characteristic of the flower.
• Young leaves have a characteristic "bunny ear" shape.
• The grass pink orchid has a rare albino form which has white flowers.