Spiranthes ovalis Lindl.

Oval Ladies' Tresses

© DETenaglia

Family - Orchidaceae

Stems - No info. yet.

Leaves - No info. yet.

© DETenaglia

Inflorescence - No info. yet.

© DETenaglia

Flowers - No info. yet.

© DETenaglia

Flowering - September - October.

Habitat - Mesic to wet bottoms, mesic upland forests, rarely in shaded mesic old fields.

Origin - Native to U.S.

Other info. - This delicate species can be found scattered throughout much of the eastern half of Missouri but is relatively uncommon. Plants are typically found alone in any given area. There are two varieties of this species. Our plants, var. erostella are self pollinated due the lack of certain essential flowering organs. The other variety, var. ovalis has slightly larger flowers and is insect pollinated. This variety occurs in southern states of the U.S.
S. ovalis can be identified by the presence of its basal and cauline leaves at anthesis, its delicate flowers and appearance, and its habitat.

Photographs taken in the Ozark Scenic Riverways, Shannon County, MO., 9-20-03.