People think orchids are hothouse flowers but quite a few native orchids grow wild in western Pennsylvania.  The showiest are few and far between.  The inconspicuous are hard to find.

This Ragged Fringed Orchid (Platanthera lacera) grows in Allegheny County.

It’s usually overlooked because its flowers are a creamy green color.  The plant itself is two feet tall.

Cool fact: It emits its fragrance at night to attract Sphinx Moths!   Click here to read more.

(photo by Dianne Machesney)