About Platanthera pallida P.M.Br.
Platanthera pallida P.M.Br. is a terrestrial orchid species that strongly resembles Platanthera cristata. Before it was formally recognized as a distinct species, plants now classified as Platanthera pallida were thought to be variations or hybrids of Platanthera cristata. Mature individuals grow 29 to 65 cm tall. They produce 2 to 3 lower leaves that can reach up to 25 cm in length, along with several smaller, reduced upper leaves. Between 24 and 80 pale orange-yellow to pale cream-colored flowers grow in a raceme at the top of the stem, each flower bearing a short nectar spur. This species blooms in the summer. It is endemic to Long Island, New York, and only three natural populations are currently known. It grows in dry open areas located between sand dunes.
