Epipactis gigantea - Stream Orchid

Description

This striking native orchid grows in moist, lightly shaded spots throughout the West. In early spring, pretty lined foliage unfurls from vertical spikes. These spikes will reach 12 to 18 inches by June, when they are topped by several beautiful multicolored blossoms. Unlike other native orchids, this one is very easy to grow. It will spread underground over time to form a patch a few feet across, with hundreds of flower stalks, and can be divided. Winter dormant.