Platanthera psycodes (Small Purple Fringed orchid)

Another (and final for this year) trip to Mt. Mitchell to photograph Platanthera psycodes or Small Purple Fringed orchid.

I met some friends from the Smithsonian who were studying this orchid species for possible horticultural purposes and also recording (with ultraviolet images) the patterns on the petals and lip that attract pollinators.

For the full report, please go to Jim's Blog...