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green orchid
green orchid (Platanthera aquilonis)
Photo © Christopher David Benda
Features and Behaviors
FEATURES
The green orchid has yellow-green flowers that are produced along the top of the stem. Each flower has an elongated lower lip. An upper sepal and two lateral petals form a hood. Two sepals, often curling back at the tip, form the sides of the flower. A short spur is present at the back of the flower. The leaves become progressively smaller along the stalk from the base to the flowers.
BEHAVIORS
This species is found in swampy areas in the northern half of the state. It blooms from June through August. Its flowers are self-pollinating. The fruit is a capsule containing tiny seeds.
Illinois Range
Taxonomy
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Orchidales
Family: Orchidaceae
Illinois Status: uncommon, native
