Identification
This native perennial grows as a fleshy plant up to 8 inches tall. Two succulent, elliptical leaves clasp the stem at ground level (A). A cluster (raceme) of 2-8 flowers with smaller lance-shaped, leaf-like bracts rise on this stem between the two leaves. The large, lower lip of the flower is white with a spur off the back margin; petals and sepals unite to form a lavender or purplish hood (B,C).
Found in moist upland woods such as immature (early successional) forest hilltops, and occasionally on floodplains in Nebraska counties bordering the Missouri River. Flowering occurs in May and June. Common just a few years ago, now rapidly declining, especially during dry years. Recently there have been very few sightings at either Fontenelle Forest or Neale Woods.
The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.