On the same day, June10, that we visited Derby Canyon and Plain, Washington, we also hiked at Chiwaukum Creek near Leavenworth. We found and photographed many different wildflwoers, but were especially delighted to find the Western Fairy Slipper, Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis, growing in abundance along the creek. We found a lot of color variation including a flower that was almost white. It was also interesting to find them growing in clumps, something we had not seen before with this species. Whether growing singly or in clumps, however, it remain one of our favorite orchids and can be found over a period of four months as one moves from lower to higher elevations following the snow melt.
10 comments:
I remember the clumping tendency in the Calypso here.
The near white one is quite something. It will be interesting to see if that spot yields a like-colored one next year.
Spectacular! I was a week too late to catch the Calypso bulbosa var. americana while up on the Bruce. These photos really make my heart ache for missing out but there's always next time!
These are fantastic.
Hi A.L.,
Not only are they one of our most beautiful orchids, but they are the first to bloom in the spring, so we make sure we never miss them. Sorry to hear that you did!
Hi Rick,
Thanks for the comment. I've tried to gett on your blog to follow it, but haven't been able to do so.
And, Marti ... have you seen them in clumps like this anywhere else? The light colored one will most certainly be watched for next year.
Only on this trail, I remember distinctly, a spot on the left hand side and thinking it odd that they appeared to be coming up from one spot.
I also remember the coral mushrooms were particularly good on this trail
We've seen a lot of corals, too, whenever we've been there. The Calypsos were everywhere this year - all along the river.
Hello, I just found your blog and LOVE all the fabulous photos of orchids you have. I am wondering if I could get your permission to use one the the picture in the above post as a reference photo for a botanical painting I plan to enter into an exhibition on Canada? If you can let me know as soon as possible that would be much appreciated. my email is lashtonart@gmail.com and my website is www.lauraashtonartist.com
I've emailed you a reply, Laura.
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