American Beauty II

American Beauty on the balcony:

This is Calopogon tuberosus, the Grass pink, an orchid that is native to the eastern states of the U.S. and some areas in Canada. It prefers wet, sunny swales, bogs, and the edges of marshy areas. Unlike most other orchids, Calopogon has a flower that is not resupinate, i.e. the lip is on the top of the flower. The scientific name refers to the 'beard' on the lip. This beard imitates stamina, in order to attract possible pollinators, and when they land on it, the lip is moving downward, pushing the insect against the reproductive parts of the flower.

I grow this orchid in a large plastic tub standing on my balcony, on an 'island' swimming in rain water. This island consists of a styrofoam board that is completely covered by peat and sphagnum moss. Calopogon is associated with another orchid, Pogonia, and carnivorous plants such as Pitcher plants (Sarracenia), and Sundew (Drosera). They are hardy species and don't need any protection in winter.

Full view, please.