Cranefly Orchid

Pollinated by nocturnal species of moths in the noctuidae family.

Cranefly Orchid is a perennial woodland orchid native to the southeastern USA and is found in all areas of NC. In Autumn the single oval leaf emerges and stays through spring, then disappears. There are no leaves present during bloom-time. In July-Sept, a 1-2 foot tall flower stalk emerges from the corm with a spike of irregularly shaped purplish-brown to copper orchid blooms. The shape accommodates the moths that pollinate them. The plants are connected by a series of corms.

They need to grow in a woodland setting with decaying wood in moist well-drained soil. Plant where they can receive sun in the winter. This plant is listed as rare, endangered or threatened in several states (not in Georgia). (From the North Carolina Extension)