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Cressler, Alan

Spiranthes cernua

Spiranthes cernua (L.) Rich.

Nodding Ladies'-tresses, Ladies'-tresses, Nodding Lady's Tresses

Orchidaceae (Orchid Family)

Synonym(s): Ibidium cernuum, Spiranthes cernua var. incurva

USDA Symbol: SPCE

USDA Native Status: L48 (N), CAN (N)

Few people would guess that Spiranthes flowers are orchids, a fact that may help save them from collectors. The narrow, grasslike leaves are 8-10 inches long, growing from the base of the plant. The flowers are white and grow along the upper part of the slender, erect stem, which is 1-2 feet tall. They grow in 2-4 spiraling rows, forming a dense spike 6 inches long. The individual flowers, about 1/2 inch long, curve downward slightly, "nodding." The lip is about 1/2 inch long, with a flaring, crimped margin. This is one of the few orchids that have a fragrance.

A dozen or more species of Ladies'-tresses are known in the eastern United States. Among those with pronounced spirals are Slender Ladies'-tresses (S. lacera), with ovate leaves and a green spot on the lip; Short-lipped Ladies'-tresses (S. brevilabris), with a downy floral spike; and Little Ladies'-tresses (S. tuberosa), with tiny flowers. In southern marshes and swamps Fragrant Ladies'-tresses (S. odorata), grows to 2-3' (60-90 cm) and has spirally arranged clusters of fragrant flowers.

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