Calypso bulbosa var. americana

(Fairy Slipper)

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Calypso bulbosa var. americana, Summit Co. 5404

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Calypso bulbosa var. americana, Summit Co. 5427

Scientific Name Calypso bulbosa var. americana USDA PLANTS Symbol CABUA
Common Name Fairy Slipper, Calypso Orchid ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. 527040
Family Orchidaceae (Orchid) SEINet
Reference
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Description Life zones and habitat: Foothills to subalpine (7000 to 10500 ft.); under pine/spruce trees in moist areas, near springs and seeps.
Plant: Erect perennial, smooth, reddish, sheathed stem 1-1/2 to 8 inches tall.
Leaves: Single basal leaf, elliptic to ovate 2 inches long, bluish-green.
Inflorescence: Solitary pink and white blossom about 1-1/2 inches across, drooping with 3 slender pink sepals and 2 similar-looking petals; large lower third petal is the "slipper" and has a tuft of yellow hairs at its tip.
Bloom Period: May to July.
References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, "Guide to Colorado Wildflowers" by G.K. Guennel and Flora of North America.
Notes: Endangered species. Do not pick or attempt to transplant (they’ll just die anyway).
BONAP Distribution Map


Map Color Key
Colorado Status:
Native

© Tom Lebsack 2024

Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains