Spotted coralroot (Corallorhiza maculata)

Spotted coralroot

Also known as: Eastern Spotted Coralroot, Summer coralroot, Western coralroot

A North American orchid, spotted coralroot does not have any chlorophyll. It is parasitic in nature. It has no leaves and, instead, grows many intricate flowers on it's reddish to cream-colored stems. Spotted coralroot only grows a few inches tall.

Scientific classification

Species

Spotted coralroot (Corallorhiza maculata)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Yellow, Purple, Red, Brown

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Spotted coralroot

Distribution of Spotted coralroot

Distribution Map

Spotted coralroot is a plant with a presence mainly in North America. In its native range, spotted coralroot flourishes within the temperate climate zones. While primarily found in North American regions, spotted coralroot's distribution does not extend significantly outside of this continent, with no widespread cultivation or introduced populations notable in other global regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodlands, forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Spotted coralroot

Leafless stem 10-20 inches (25-50 cm) tall distinguishes spotted coralroot from leaf-bearing plants.

White lip with purple spots on flowers is a distinctive feature of spotted coralroot.

Dull, purplish-brown hue of flowers with red-spotted lobed lip.

Small individual flowers, 0.4-0.6 inches (1-1.5 cm) in size.

Dependence on mycorrhizal fungi due to lack of chlorophyll.

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Care Guide for Spotted coralroot

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Spotted coralroot thrives in shady, moist conditions, efficiently absorbing moisture and tolerating brief dryness. It requires weekly watering to mimic natural rainfall. Typically grown outdoors, spotted coralroot relies on a symbiotic relationship with soil fungi for water and nutrients, requiring less frequent watering than other species.

Fertilize: Caring for spotted coralroot requires minimal fertilization due to its symbiotic relationship with fungi. Apply balanced fertilizers sparingly before spring growth, ideally once a year, to maintain healthy growth and preserve spotted coralroot's delicate ecosystem. Remember, less is more for its vitality.

Pruning: Spotted coralroot features distinctive spotted stems and requires careful pruning in early to late spring. Removing dead stems and old flower spikes boosts vigor and prevents disease. Gentle handling is vital due to delicate rhizomes, while pruning enhances air circulation, aesthetics, and bloom quality.

Propagation: Spotted coralroot relies on symbiotic fungi for growth, complicating conventional propagation. Natural propagation occurs through rhizome division. For successful replanting, ensure segments contain mycorrhizal fungi and are placed in a humidity-friendly substrate, as success rates vary due to ecological specificity.

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Images of Spotted coralroot

Distribution of Spotted coralroot

Quickly Identify Spotted coralroot

Care Guide for Spotted coralroot

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