Showy orchid (Galearis spectabilis, Herb. Raf.: 72 (1833))

Family: Orchidaceae

Author: (L.) Raf.

Bibliography: Herb. Raf.: 72 (1833)

Year: 1833

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Galearis

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Canada to NC. & E. U.S.A.

Description

The Showy Orchid, scientifically named Galearis spectabilis, is a captivating member of the Orchidaceae family. First documented in scientific literature in 1833 by the author Rafinesque, this elegant plant boasts a significant presence in the geographical regions spanning Eastern Canada to North Carolina, as well as other parts of Eastern United States.

Characterized by its striking blooms, the Showy Orchid is revered for its delicate and ornamental flowers that typically bloom in the spring. The plant thrives in moist, shaded environments, often found in rich woodlands and damp, deciduous forests where its roots can establish deep within the fertile soil.

A closer examination of Galearis spectabilis reveals a robust, upright stem adorned with two large, glossy leaves that form a base for the intricate flowers above. The blossoms themselves are a testament to nature’s artistry, with hues ranging from pale pink to magenta, complemented by a distinguished, white lower lip that enhances the plant’s allure.

This orchid not only serves an aesthetic function in its natural setting but also plays a vital role in the local ecosystem. It provides a source of nectar for pollinators such as bees, which in turn facilitate the reproductive process of the plant. The relationship between the Showy Orchid and its pollinators exemplifies the intricate web of interactions that sustain biodiversity within these habitats.

Despite its charm and ecological significance, Galearis spectabilis faces threats from habitat destruction and changes in land use. Conservation efforts are essential to preserve its natural habitats, ensuring that future generations continue to experience the beauty and ecological benefits of the Showy Orchid.

In conclusion, Galearis spectabilis, or the Showy Orchid, is a noteworthy botanical specimen with a rich history and an essential role in the ecosystems of Eastern Canada and the Eastern United States. Its striking appearance and ecological interactions make it a plant of both beauty and importance.

Common Names

Eng: showy orchid, showy orchis, purple-hooded orchis, two-leaved orchis
Fra: galéaris remarquable, orchide admirable, orchis brillant
En: Showy orchid, Showy orchis, Purple-hooded orchis, Two-leaved orchis
Fr: Galéaris remarquable, Orchide admirable, Orchis brillant

Synonyms

• Habenaria spectabilis ((L.) Spreng.)
• Orchis spectabilis f. albiflora (Ulke)
• Galearis spectabilis f. gordinieri ((House) R.E.Whiting & Catling)
• Orchis spectabilis f. gordinieri (Weath.)
• Orchis spectabilis (L.)
• Galearis spectabilis f. albiflora ((Ulke) C.F.Reed)
• Galearis spectabilis f. willeyi ((F.Seym.) P.M.Br.)
• Galeorchis spectabilis f. gordinieri (House)
• Orchis humilis (Michx.)
• Galeorchis spectabilis ((L.) Rydb.)
• Orchis spectabilis var. lilacina (Ames)
• Orchis spectabilis f. willeyi (F.Seym.)
• Galearis biflora (Raf.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Delaware (native)
• District of Columbia (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Maine (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Brunswick (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Québec (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 9, 2020 by Brandon Cosgrove (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 9, 2021 by Erin Gleeson (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 4, 2015 by EOL − Johnny Wilson (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 19, 2019 by Deanna Martin (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 19, 2019 by Deanna Martin (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 28, 2020 by Daniel Goulash (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 24, 2020 by Nicole WK (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 19, 2020 by Aguilar Mendez anna yury (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 5, 2021 by Hoof Armor (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 9, 2021 by Erin Gleeson (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 14, 2009 by EOL − Barry Rice (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 11, 2014 by EOL − Suzanne Cadwell (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 28, 2014 by EOL − roy pilcher (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Ripley, J.D. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 22, 2015 by EOL − michellei (cc-by-nc)

© 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/2850131)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:635315-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Galearis spectabilis (L.) Raf.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth