Cleistes bifaria (Small Spreading Pogonia Orchid)

This orchid usually blooms during the first couple of weeks in May in southeastern North Carolina. I wasn't surprised to find one in bloom on this trip, but I was surprised to find it in such good shape. This species differs in several ways from its larger cousin, the Large Spreading Pogonia. In any case, it is quite lovely and always great to see on a trip to the area...