How to identify Putty root orchid (Aplectrum hyemale)

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How to identify Putty root orchid (Aplectrum hyemale)

Putty root orchid, also known as Putty root

Putty root orchid displays a singular, striking green leaf present throughout winter, spanning up to 10 inches (25 cm) in length. The leaf withers before the solitary springtime flower stalk emerges, bearing an array of small, resplendent, orchid-like blooms. Each flower, subtle in color, has intricate markings designed to attract pollinators. The bilaterally symmetrical flowers are a key identifying feature of putty root orchid, paired with its unique corms that aid in vegetative reproduction.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Putty root orchid

Singular green leaf up to 10 inches (25 cm) long persists through winter.

Bilaterally symmetrical orchid-like blooms on slender 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) flower stalks.

Distinctive 1 inch (2.54 cm) tan capsule fruit with cone-like shape and leathery texture.

Basal oval leaves, 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long with silvery-white and green stripes.

Tall green stalk, 2 feet (60 cm) high, lacks branching and supports unique bilaterally symmetrical flowers.

Detailed Traits of Putty root orchid

Leaf Features

The leaves of putty root orchid are single, basal, and oval to elliptic in shape, appearing in late November. Measuring 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in length and 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.5 cm) in width, they feature entire margins and an acuminate to acute tip. The leaves exhibit a distinctively wrinkled texture with parallel, alternating silvery-white and green stripes, persisting until March.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of putty root orchid bloom in late May or early June, appearing on slender, leafless stalks that are 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) tall. Each flower stalk features a loose raceme of 8 to 20 pale greenish-purple flowers, each about 1 inch (2.5 cm) across. The sepals form a triangular pattern, while the petals create a wrinkled, two-lipped tubular shape. The lower lip is distinctively white with purple spots, characterized by a small lobe on each side and a wavy front.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of putty root orchid is actually a flower stalk that serves a similar function. It is tall, reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm) in height, and is uniformly green. The stalk is smooth in texture, slender yet sturdy, and lacks branching. Its uniform green color and vertical growth make it a distinctive feature, easily noticeable among other plant parts. This stalk typically emerges as a singular structure, providing structural support for the flowers.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of putty root orchid is encapsulated in a 1 inch (2.54 cm) tan capsule with distinctive ridges. It exhibits a cone-like shape with a pointed tip, characteristic of its species. The capsule's surface may feel somewhat leathery to the touch, with the ripened fruit typically bending downward along the flower stalk, aligning with gravity. This downturned position is a notable feature during the fruit's maturation period.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Identify Putty root orchid easily and quickly

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