Galearis spectabilis

[cdub]

Tis the season for natives on the East Coast. This is one of the first species to bloom around here, and is quite common in the right habitat. In eastern Virginia, this orchid grows in rich humus in shady spots in deciduous woodlands. It requires very moist soil, or at least no periods of extreme drought, so it's often found near small streams or on swampy ground. Enjoy.

I also found this millipede on its way through the leaf litter! If my Google skills serve me correctly, it is Narceus americanus, one of the largest millipedes in the US.

 

[kentuckiense]

Beautiful photos, too! I love this species.

 

[toddybear]

Eeeww! I have a queezy stomach for the small millepedes....I couldn't stand have one that large in my hand!

The Galearis are beautiful...too bad it is not native in my area.

 

[Elena]

Love the orchid, not so much the millipede

 

[Rick]

That's a nice clump of Galearis:clap:

Now I dare you to pick up a red headed centipede that big:evil:

 

[MoreWater]

OMG. please, a warning before millipede blow up pix!!!!

nice to see the native. Pretty sure it's not to be found here in Arlington, LOL.

 

[Marco]

cool flowers, thanks Chris

 

[NYEric]

Is that a cultivated stand or a wild one? Very much thanx for all the photos

 

[SlipperFan]

What a gorgous clump! I'm going to have to start looking around better...

 

[cdub]

These photos were taken in a nature stand of Galearis, of the largest groupings I have ever seen. I estimated over 100 plants on a ravine slope a few hundred square meters in area. I understand they are quite amenable to cultivation though, as long as you have a damp, shady spot.

 

[Heather]

OMG. please, a warning before millipede blow up pix!!!!

No kidding. I don't do millipedes. Blech!

 

[Ron-NY]

very nice!!!