Triphora trianthophora (Three-birds orchids)

Having seen these in plump bud yesterday, I knew they would be in bloom today. The last time this patch bloomed was more than a week ago, and it's not unusual for them to wait for two weeks or more from the first bloom. Each flower lasts just 7-8 hours, then withers and dies. But, when one plant blooms, every other one in the immediate vicinity does, as well. There are about 3-4 bloom cycles for this species, and if you don't catch it on one of those short bloom cycles, there is a wait of another year.

This year, there are not nearly as many plants as in previous years at this location. Hopefully it is just a resting period, although I fear that the death of the Eastern Hemlock canopy might be affecting the health of these fragile orchids...

To read the trip report, please go to Jim's Blog.