This striped coralroot is an understory orchid. It is mostly made up of an inflorescence of orchid flowers. The striped coralroot is a saprophytic plant. This means that it has no chlorophyll and relies on fungi for sustenance. It is also the reason that this plant is not green.
Physical characteristics
(www.minnesotawildflowers.info)
Leaf: This plant has no leaves. Instead, it has white sheathing organs.
Flower | Seeds: Each flower is an open array of pale sepals and petals covered with maroon stripes. Inside the flower is a column formed from the fusion of male and female parts, which may be spotted with purple or red.
Trunk | Bark: This plant is herbaceous and has an erect stem reddish stem.
Lifespan: After producing flower stalks, the rhizomes may remain dormant for several years. This orchid can withstand cold but not heat and thus cannot be successfully cultivated south of its natural range. (Source)
Ecological characteristics
The interactive version of this map can be found on the Encyclopedia of Life website.
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Importance to the ecosystem
ES 204: SUMMER FLORA OF THE GREAT LAKES
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