Tuesday, May 23, 2006


Lily-leafed Twayblade (Liparis lilifolia) is a rare orchid to find in Alabama. In fact, it is only known from a handful of sites in the northern part of the state. The botanical name is from a Greek word meaning "fat," from the succulence of the leaves. "Liparis," from Greek "liparos," fat or shining, from the smooth and lustrous leaves and succulence. "lilifolia," lily-leaved. Note the broad paired basal leaves and the dull mauve flowers with their broad lip, threadlike side petals and narrow greenish sepals. 4-10 in. Truly a beauty that is easily overlooked.

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