Tuberous grasspink (Calopogon tuberosus, Prelim. Cat.: 52 (1888))

Family: Orchidaceae

Author: (L.) Britton, Sterns & Poggenb.

Bibliography: Prelim. Cat.: 52 (1888)

Year: 1888

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Calopogon

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: C. & E. Canada to EC. & E. U.S.A., Bahamas to Cuba

Description

The Tuberous grasspink, scientifically known as Calopogon tuberosus, is a captivating species that falls within the prestigious Orchidaceae family. This delicate plant graces its presence in various regions, spanning from Central and Eastern Canada to the Eastern and Central United States. Its geographical reach also extends to the Bahamas and Cuba, showcasing its adaptability across a diverse range of climates.

First documented in 1888, the Tuberous grasspink has since garnered attention for its unique botanical characteristics. Its vibrant and intricately patterned flowers contribute to its allure, making it a distinctive part of the ecosystems it inhabits. Flourishing in wetland habitats like bogs and fens, Calopogon tuberosus displays an intriguing symbiosis with its environment, thriving in areas where few other species can.

This orchid typically blooms during the summer months, producing striking pink to lavender flowers that beckon pollinators with their vivid coloration and intricate structures. Unlike many orchids, the Tuberous grasspink employs a unique pollination mechanism; its flowers lack nectar, yet they attract insects through visual deception, a compelling example of natural ingenuity.

Conservation efforts for Calopogon tuberosus are essential, given its specific habitat requirements and the pressures of wetland degradation. Preservation of its natural habitats ensures that future generations can continue to admire this remarkable species. Overall, the Tuberous grasspink stands as a testament to the extraordinary diversity and adaptability of the Orchidaceae family, captivating botanists and nature enthusiasts alike with its beauty and ecological significance.

Common Names

Eng: tuberous grasspink, tuberous grass-pink, grass-pink, swamp-pink
Fra: calopogon tubéreux, calopogon gracieux
En: Tuberous grasspink, Calopogon, Grass Pink, Grass Pink Orchid, Grass-pink Orchid, Tuberous Grass-pink, Grass-pink, Swamp-pink
Fr: Calopogon tubéreux, Calopogon gracieux

Synonyms

• Bletia tuberosa ((L.) Ames)
• Helleborine tuberosa ((L.) Kuntze)
• Cathea tuberosa ((L.) Morong)
• Limodorum tuberosum (L.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Bahamas (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Cuba (native)
• Delaware (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maine (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• New Brunswick (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• Newfoundland (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Nova Scotia (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Prince Edward I. (native)
• Québec (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Barnes Dr Thomas G, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (public)

Taken Mar 6, 2014 by EOL − Aarongunnar (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 16, 2019 by Datan Chris (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 18, 2019 by Zachary Bélisle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 14, 2021 by Georges Olioso (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Apr 17, 2013 by EOL − Bob Heitzman (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 6, 2014 by EOL − Aarongunnar (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Superior National Forest (cc-by)

Taken Dec 17, 2014 by EOL − Erika Mitchell (cc-by-nc)

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

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

© 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/2842641)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:42783-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Calopogon tuberosus (L.) Britton, Sterns & Poggenb.)

Specifications

Growth