Whorled Pogonia Information
Isotria whorled pogonias come in two forms: the large whorled pogonia and the small whorled pogonia. The small whorled pogonia is considered rare, while the larger form of the plant is quite common. These woodland flowers thrive in shade, partial shade, or even fully shaded areas. They produce unique flowers that are not so much showy as just plain unusual. One strange bit of whorled pogonia information is its ability to self-pollinate. Isotria verticillatais is the larger of the species. It has a purplish stem and five whorled leaves. Leaves are green except for the underside which may be bluish-grey. Most plants produce 1 or 2 flowers with three yellowish-green petals and purple-brown sepals. Blooms are about ¾ inch (2 cm.) long and eventually produce an elliptical fruit with thousands of tiny seeds. While not a brilliant color combination like many classic orchids, its very strangeness is alluring. Plants in the group Isotria medeoloides, the small whorled pogonia, are only about 10 inches (25.5 cm.) in height and have greener flowers with lime green sepals. Bloom time for both is between May and June.
Where Does Whorled Pogonia Grow?
Both species of whorled pogonia plants are native to North America. The larger pogonia is common and can be found from Texas to Maine and into Ontario in Canada. It is a wet or dry woodland plant that may also appear in boggy regions. The rare small whorled pogonia is found in Maine, west to Michigan, Illinois, and Missouri and south to Georgia. It also occurs in Ontario. It is one of the rarest species of orchid in North America, primarily due to habitat destruction and illegal plant collection. It requires a very specific terrain where water moves down to its location. Rerouting waterways has destroyed entire precious populations of this unique orchid. Whorled pogonia plants grow in soil called frangipan, which is the thin, cement-like layer under the surface of the soil. In previously logged areas, the orchids grow at the bottom of slopes in this frangipan. They prefer granite soils and acid pH. The orchids may grow in hardwood stands of beech, maple, oak, birch, or hickory. Soils must be moist and humus rich with a thick layer of composting leaves. While the large whorled pogonia is not listed as rare, it is also threatened due to habitat loss and expansion. Both are also in danger from recreational activities, such as hiking, which trample the tender plants. Collection of either species is forbidden by law.
