Bluntleaved orchid (Platanthera obtusata, Gen. Sp. Orchid. Pl.: 284 (1835))

Family: Orchidaceae

Author: (Banks ex Pursh) Lindl.

Bibliography: Gen. Sp. Orchid. Pl.: 284 (1835)

Year: 1835

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Platanthera

Vegetable: False

Observations: Subarctic America to Rocky Mts.

Description

The Bluntleaved orchid, scientifically known as Platanthera obtusata, is a fascinating and delicate species that holds a special place within the Orchidaceae family. First described in “Gen. Sp. Orchid. Pl.: 284” by (Banks ex Pursh) Lindl. in 1835, this orchid has garnered attention for its unique characteristics and habitat preferences.

Native to Subarctic America and extending to the rocky terrains of the Rocky Mountains, the Bluntleaved orchid thrives in a variety of environments, showcasing an impressive adaptability. These regions offer the cool and moist conditions that the orchid favors, allowing it to flourish despite the often harsh climates.

The Platanthera obtusata is particularly noted for its distinctive blunt leaves, which give the orchid its common name. The leaves are typically broad and rounded at the tips, a feature that distinguishes it from other species within the Platanthera genus. This physical trait not only aids in identification but also adds to the plant’s ornamental appeal.

Flowering during the warmer months, the Bluntleaved orchid produces a captivating inflorescence. The flowers are small yet intricately structured, showcasing a blend of white to yellowish-green hues that contrast beautifully against the deep green of its leaves. Each bloom is a testament to the delicate and intricate designs that are characteristic of orchids.

Ecologically, the Bluntleaved orchid plays a significant role in its habitat. It contributes to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits and serves as a vital component of the local flora. The orchid’s presence is often an indicator of a healthy ecosystem, as it requires specific environmental conditions to thrive.

In horticulture, Platanthera obtusata is admired for its beauty and resilience. Gardeners and botanists alike appreciate the challenge and reward that come with cultivating this orchid. Due to its specific habitat requirements, it necessitates careful attention and precise replication of its natural environment to ensure successful growth.

In summary, the Bluntleaved orchid, Platanthera obtusata, is not just an ordinary plant; it is a stunning example of nature’s complexity and elegance. From its subarctic and mountainous homes to gardens and botanical collections, this orchid continues to capture the interest and admiration of all who encounter it.

Common Names

Eng: bluntleaved orchid, northern small bog orchid, blunt-leaved orchid, blunt-leaved rein orchid, blunt bog orchid, one-leaved rein orchid, small northern bog orchid
Swe: lappfela
Fra: platanthère à feuille obtuse, habénaire obtuse, habénaire à feuille obtuse
En: Bluntleaved orchid, Blunt-Leaf Orchid, NORTHERN SMALL BOGORCHID, Blunt bog orchid, Northern small bog orchid, Blunt-leaved Rein Orchid, Blunt-leaved orchid, One-leaved rein orchid, Small northern bog orchid
Fi: Pikkulehdokki
Fr: Platanthère à feuille obtuse, Habénaire obtuse, Habénaire à feuille obtuse
No: Sibirnattfiol
Sv: Lappfela

Synonyms

• Platanthera obtusata var. collectanea ((Fernald) W.J.Schrenk)
• Lysiella obtusata ((Banks ex Pursh) Rydb.)
• Habenaria obtusata var. collectanea (Fernald)
• Platanthera obtusata f. collectanea ((Fernald) P.M.Br.)
• Platanthera obtusata f. foliosa (P.M.Br.)
• Habenaria obtusata ((Banks ex Pursh) Richardson)
• Orchis obtusata (Banks ex Pursh)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• Aleutian Is. (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Labrador (native)
• Maine (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Montana (native)
• New Brunswick (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• New York (native)
• Newfoundland (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Nova Scotia (native)
• Nunavut (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Prince Edward I. (native)
• Québec (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• Utah (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Jason Hollinger (cc-by)

Taken Feb 25, 2022 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 6, 2019 by David Hocken (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Jason Hollinger (cc-by)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − NPS / Jacob W. Frank: Denali National Park and Preserve (cc-by)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2798436)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:651851-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Platanthera obtusata (Banks ex Pursh) Lindl.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth