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Coral Root Orchid Wikimedia Commons
Orchidaceae

Coral Root Orchid

Corallorhiza trifida

Hidden connections.

Family
Orchidaceae
Genus
Corallorhiza
Native to
North America, Europe, Asia
Bloom season
Spring, Summer
Type
Perennial orchid
Height
10-30 cm
Sunlight
Full shade to partial shade
Soil
Humus-rich forest floor
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
3-8
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Coral root orchids have no chlorophyll and cannot photosynthesize; they obtain nutrients from fungi.
  • The name refers to the coral-like branching pattern of its underground rhizome.
  • They are one of the few orchids that thrive in deep shade on forest floors.
  • The plant is so dependent on its fungal partner that it cannot be cultivated in gardens.
  • It has the widest distribution of any coralroot species, spanning three continents.

Color meanings

0

Mystery

1

Interdependence

2

Resourcefulness

Uses

  • Ecological indicator
  • Mycological studies
  • Botanical education