It is always a treat to come upon these little treasures.


Tipularia discolor is called Crane Fly Orchid. It is most noticeable during the winter when it's single green leaf with purple back is visible among the leaves. But the late summer bloom - present when the leaf is dormant - often goes unnoticed. Here is a good page with pictures of the bloom and leaf.

Another late summer orchid is Rattlesnake Plantain; the scientific name is Goodyera pubescens. This plant has beautiful foliage, sometimes described as resembling stained glass (with just two colors though, green and white). This plant is evergreen year round, producing fresh foliage in the spring. The bloom is present now. Here is a good page with pictures.

So if you stumble upon these delicate stalks of flowers, stop and admire some of Georgia's own native orchids.