When you think of orchids, you normally do not think of them as growing in the wild in Colorado. I am no plant expert, but my take is that orchids thrive in environments such as rainforests. Turns out, orchids can and do grow in the state of Colorado. They are just not as common. In fact, they are quite rare. The last time a rare orchid was found in Jefferson County Colorado was over a century ago in 1905.

Rare Orchid Spotted in Colorado

Researchers and citizens discovered a rare orchid in April, a Striped Coral Root Orchid at the Chatfield Farms Deer Creek Natural Area. The rare flower was spotted under cottonwood trees, chokecherries, and snowberries. These orchids do not have any green parts to them and do not photosynthesize. Plants such as these get their energy and grow by parasitizing fungi.

K99 logo
Get our free mobile app

After the initial discovery of the orchid in Colorado, researchers went back a few weeks later to collect a flower specimen. During the return trip, there were a dozen other Coral Root Orchids spotted under well-camouflaged conditions. Take a look at the photos of the rare Coral Root Orchids that were spotted at the Chatfield Farms Deer Creek Natural Area.

Learn more about the discovery of this unique flower found in Colorado at botanicgardens.org.

6 Tips for River Tubing in Colorado

Gallery Credit: Kelsey Nistel

RANKED: These 10 Colorado Cities Have the Best Quality of Life

Lawnstarter looked at data with 16 factors to identify which Colorado cities have the best quality of life. These cities have the best resources, climate, and fun activities.

Gallery Credit: Tanner Chambers

 

 

More From K99