The fairy slipper or calypso orchid (Calypso bulbosa) frequents cool, moist, coniferous forests, so what better place to look for it than beside our raging creeks of springtime. Yet, it is inconspicuous on the forest floor—calypso is a Greek word meaning hidden. And hidden is the keyword: two days ago, I spotted only one flower; today, while walking the same path, I managed to find over a dozen.
Here are three shots of what many consider to be our most beautiful wild orchid. These are followed by a bumble bee carrying what may be its pollinia.
In the past, I have only noticed the fairy slipper in isolation. So, this group was unexpected. Unfortunately, I could not move in for a closer picture as these fairy slippers were on a cliff ledge well below me.
I managed to get closer to two adjacent orchids atop the cliff.
Other fairy slippers seen were isolated.
Orchids (and a few other flowers, such as the periwinkle and dogbane) assemble their pollen into packets that the flower glues to the back of a bee. Here is a bumble bee (Bombus bifarius) carrying two pollinia (the yellow capsules between its wings). Whether these come from the fairy slipper cannot be determined, but it is a good possibility.
Wondrous and marvelous shots, Alistair ! ! !
Thank you so much for showing our group these wondrous things…and I will send you the picture of you taking the picture of the fairyslippers……..so dedicated! We are all looking forward to the next jaunt.
I’ve been away from my computer – farm sitting – so am just catching up. Alistair, your photos and accompanying info are invaluable. I wish this delectable education had swept my way long ago. Pollinia. I think it should be a toast.
Pamella, I regularly confuse the word, pollinia, (pollen capsules) with the word, polynya, (area of persistent open water in the Arctic). Now, you have added to my confusion by linking it in my mind with the word, prost, (a toast equivalent to cheers). I may not recover.