Owl's Head Platanthera ciliaris

Orange fringe orchid is a native perennial plant in the Orchidaceae (orchid) family that is native to the eastern and southern portions of Canada and the US.  Its native habitat ranges from peaty or wet areas, dry uplands, meadows, sandy woods and thickets, slopes, and roadsides.  The common name fringe orchid comes from the hairy looking lower petal on its dainty bright orange flowers.

Orange fringe orchid grows quickly in small colonies by spreading out stolons that bud new plants.  Reaching a mature height of 1 to 3 feet, it prefers acidic soils that are boggy and wet though it tolerates drier conditions as long as adequate moisture is present during flowering.  Mulch with pine straw in the winter to protect the roots and help acidify the soil.    This plant can be challenging to propagate by seed so divide roots in the fall.  

The flowers have a long nectar spur in the back that attracts pollinators like butterflies and moths.  Due to threats including succession, plant collection, roadside mowing, and changes in hydrology, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find in the northern edges of the native range. 

Plant in a native meadow, bog, or pollinator garden.  They work well mass planted in drifts along slope, or in a container and the flowers make excellent cut bouquets.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious problems.  The flower stalk may need staking.