Platanthera dilatata var. leucostachys

Platanthera dilatata var. leucostachys, the Sierra Rein Orchis, is distinguished from the other two varieties of this species by its very long spur, noticeably longer than its lip.  It is much rarer in our area than var. dilatata, which has a spur equal in length to the lip and also blooms somewhat later than that species.  We've found it still in bloom when var. dilatata is finished in locations where both grow.  Otherwise it is indistinguishable from either of the other varieties.  Plant height varies from 30 to 90 cm and the flowers are 2 cm or slightly less and very fragrant.

July 24

(Olympic Mountains)

July 31

(North Cascades)

August 2

(North Cascades)

Epipactis gigantea

Epipactis gigantea is our only native Epipactis, though Epipactis helleborine is also quite common in our area, especially at lower elevations.  That species, however,  is a European import and not a native.  Epipactis gigantea is known both as the Stream Orchid for its preference for wet areas and as the Chatterbox for its moveable lip.  By any name it is a beautiful species with large flowers and attractive plants.  The plants have pleated leaves and generally grow to 30-45 cm, though they can be taller.  The flowers, as many as several dozen to a spike are 3 cm across and beautifully colored.  We know several locations where these can be found but found a new location this summer with hundreds of plants, a great find since the species is quite rare and protected in Washington.

July 24

(Olympic Peninsula)