Thursday, August 5, 2021

Purple Fringed Orchid

 

Today, Thursday August 5 2021, I visited a creek close to home in search of a Purple Fringed Orchid.  I haven't found the orchid at this creek before but I thought it was the right sort of place to find one.  I did find just one.  It was about 35 inches tall and in perfect condition.

I spied it from the other side of the creek and bravely made my way to it.  There was the creek to cross, and mud, and spider webs, and brambles, and dead trees to get through to see this gorgeous orchid up close!  

What a thrill to find this plant!  Some times I tell myself that it is fine not to see a special plant, to just enjoy the adventure.  I have to admit, finding this plant made my day!  






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8 comments:

  1. NH GardenerAugust 5, 2021 at 5:07 PM

    I'm so glad you found it, Chris! It's easily one of the most beautiful flowers I've ever seen. The plant I know of has come back each year for six years now, so you should be able to see it again. (That will make winter seem even longer)

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  2. Plants Amaze MeAugust 5, 2021 at 5:15 PM

    Thanks Allen. That’s good to know that you have one that comes back each year. I should probably mark the spot I saw this one. When I was near the orchid there was a nice smell in the air and I realized I was surrounded by Spice Bush. I know of other places these orchids grow but those places are quite a drive, this one is very close!

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  3. Sister in the Mid-westAugust 6, 2021 at 3:52 PM

    Thank you for sharing the pictures. I have never seen of even heard of the purple fringed orchid before. Perhaps someday I will see one for myself, too.

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    1. Plants Amaze MeAugust 6, 2021 at 4:58 PM

      Thanks sister in the Midwest. One of my sisters she lives in Minnesota has grown orchids for many years, beautiful orchids. She said the Purple Fringed Orchid is her favorite.
      I have seen them before but not by this creek so I was happy to see it. I hope you find one some day!

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  4. Brendan McMahonAugust 7, 2021 at 2:19 PM

    So beautiful! Thank you for posting. I’d love to see one in flower - do you think it’s too late for the ones in the Allegan State Game area? I’m headed to Miner Lake Bog tomorrow…

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  5. Plants Amaze MeAugust 7, 2021 at 2:27 PM

    Thanks Brendan M. I saw this orchid in Ottawa County (Grand Haven Township) two days ago, so I think your chances of finding them blooming in Allegan County is very good. I’m not sure I have been to Miner Lake Bog, but I have seen many Purple Fringed Orchid in the wet woods and along stream banks in Allegan State Game Area usually around the end of July or early August. I also see them at Gales Pond in Oceana County.
    Good luck!

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  6. Brendan McMahonAugust 7, 2021 at 2:45 PM

    Great info! Thank you again!

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  7. DaveAugust 11, 2021 at 9:34 PM

    Great Find! What a Beauty!

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