Family: Orchidaceae
Author: Nutt.
Bibliography: Gen. N. Amer. Pl. 2: 190 (1818)
Year: 1818
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Habenaria
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & SE. U.S.A. to Trop. America
Description
Water orchid, scientifically known as Habenaria repens, is an enchanting species belonging to the Orchidaceae family. It was first described by Nutt. in 1818, referenced in “Gen. N. Amer. Pl. 2: 190.” This remarkable orchid is found across a broad range extending from the central and southeastern United States down to tropical regions of the Americas.
Characterized by its aquatic adaptability, the water orchid thrives in wetland habitats such as marshes, swamps, and the shallow edges of ponds and lakes. Its ability to flourish in such watery environments sets it apart from many other members of its family, adding to its fascinating ecological niche.
The plant showcases a delicate and intricate structure. Its distinct flowers, typically greenish-white, are both attractive and elegant, displaying the unique beauty that orchids are renowned for. The blooms are intricate, with each flower exhibiting a trilobed lip and delicate spur, which is typical for the plants in the Habenaria genus. Leaves are generally elongated and slender, contributing to its graceful appearance.
Habenaria repens not only enhances the biodiversity of wetland areas but also plays a role in their ecological health. These orchids provide essential resources for a variety of pollinators, including certain species of moths, which in turn support the broader ecosystem.
Growing and nurturing the water orchid requires an understanding of its natural habitat and specific needs. This includes maintaining a consistently moist environment and ensuring ample light, which mimics the orchid’s wild conditions. Such requirements make this plant a cherished addition for those capable of providing the care it demands, particularly in water gardens or specialized botanical collections.
In summary, Habenaria repens is a remarkable orchid that offers both aesthetic appeal and ecological significance. Its presence from the southeastern United States to tropical America underscores its adaptability and the critical role it plays in wetland ecosystems.
Common Names
Spa: habenaria acuática
Eng: floating orchid, water orchid, water-spider orchid, waterspider bog orchid
En: Water orchid, Water-spider orchid, Floating orchid, Waterspider bog orchid, Water-Spider False Rein Orchid
Es: Habenaria acuática
Synonyms
- Mesicera repens ((Nutt.) Raf.)
- Orchis repens ((Nutt.) Alph.Wood)
- Platanthera repens ((Nutt.) Alph.Wood)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Belize (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Florida (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Texas (native)
- Trinidad-Tobago (native)
- Uruguay (native)
- Venezuela (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Mar 21, 2021 by François Treil (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Justice, W. S. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Sep 5, 2022 by Austin Poston (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jun 20, 2012 by EOL − Sharpj99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Haug, E. (cc-by-nc-sa)
© 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/2830046)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:323044-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Habenaria repens Nutt.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb