Corallorhiza (Haller) Chatelain
The Coral-root orchids
Corallorhiza striata
This genus is primarily North American, although
one species, C. trifida, is circumboreal in distribution. Four species
can be found in Wisconsin. All species are leafless saprophytes, but C.
trifida and C. odontorhiza are greenish, and probably photosynthesize
to some extent. The generic name is derived from the Greek words meaning
"coral root," in reference to the coral-like roots of species
of this genus.
A. Labellum three-lobed, or with teeth-like lobes
near the base
- Lateral sepals with only one prominent nerve, labellum 3-4 mm long...trifida
- Lateral sepals with three prominent nerves, labellum 4.5-8 mm long...maculata
AA.Labellum entire, lacking lobes at the base
- Labellum concave, deep red; flowers striated...striata
- Labellum not concave, white, spotted with purple; flowers typically
cleistogamous...odontorhiza
Go to the list of the species of Corallorhiza.
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