Boreal bog orchid (Platanthera dilatata, Bot. North. Middle States: 347 (1833))

Family: Orchidaceae

Author: (Pursh) Lindl. ex L.C.Beck

Bibliography: Bot. North. Middle States: 347 (1833)

Year: 1833

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Platanthera

Vegetable: False

Observations: Komandor Is. to U.S.A.

Description

The Boreal bog orchid, scientifically known as Platanthera dilatata, is a captivating member of the Orchidaceae family. This delicate and beautifully structured plant was first described in the literature “Botanical of the Northern and Middle States” in the year 1833. The expert contributions of Pursh, Lindley, and L.C. Beck have played a pivotal role in documenting and classifying this remarkable species.

Platanthera dilatata is known for its appealing appearance, characterized by its slender and upright stems which can support a multitude of small, fragrant flowers. The white to pale green blooms form a dense spike, contributing to the orchid’s elegant and aesthetic appeal. This plant’s leaves are typically long and narrow, displaying a light to medium green color, which complements the delicate flowers beautifully.

The natural habitat of the Boreal bog orchid extends from the cold, wet climates of the Komandor Islands down through the cooler regions of the United States, exhibiting a significant range of adaptability. The orchid thrives in boggy, moist environments, which is indicative of its common name. It prefers acidic soils and is often found in peat-rich wetlands, bogs, and damp meadows, where its roots can continually access moisture.

The distribution of Platanthera dilatata across such a wide geographical range showcases its resilience and adaptability. However, despite its hardy nature, it remains dependent on specific environmental conditions, which makes its conservation important, especially as these habitats face increasing threats from climate change and human activities.

Observations of the Boreal bog orchid emphasize its ecological significance and ornamental allure. The species not only adds to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits but also plays a crucial role in the delicate ecosystems of northern and temperate wetlands.

For botanists, horticulturists, and nature enthusiasts, Platanthera dilatata holds a special place. Its stunning floral displays and its intricate interactions within its habitat make it a subject of interest and admiration in the world of orchid species.

Common Names

Eng: boreal bog orchid, scentbottle, white bog orchid, tall white bog orchid, bog candles, fragrant white bog orchid, fragrant white rein orchid, leafy white orchid, scent-bottle
Fra: platanthère dilatée, habénaire dilatée
En: Boreal bog orchid, Scentbottle, White bog orchid, Tall white bog orchid, Bog candles, Fragrant white bog orchid, Fragrant white rein orchid, Leafy white orchid, Scent-bottle
Fr: Platanthère dilatée, Habénaire dilatée

Synonyms

• Piperia dilatata ((Pursh) Szlach. & Rutk.)
• Orchis dilatata (Pursh)
• Platanthera hyperborea var. dilatata ((Pursh) Rchb.f.)
• Habenaria dilatata ((Pursh) Hook.)
• Limnorchis dilatata ((Pursh) Rydb.)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• Aleutian Is. (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Greenland (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Kamchatka (native)
• Labrador (native)
• Maine (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Brunswick (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• New York (native)
• Newfoundland (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Nova Scotia (native)
• Nunavut (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Pennsylvania (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 Feb 25, 2022 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2797036)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:651717-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Platanthera dilatata (Pursh) Lindl. ex L.C.Beck)

Specifications

Growth habit: Forb/herb

Growth