About Platanthera leptopetala (Rydb.) R.M.Bateman
Platanthera leptopetala, a species of orchid, has two common names: narrow-petal rein orchid, and lacy rein orchid. It is native to the west coast of the United States, ranging from Washington to California. In this region, it grows in scrub and woodland habitats of mountains and foothills. This orchid grows erect from a bulbous caudex, reaching a maximum height of about 70 centimeters. Its basal leaves can grow up to 15 centimeters long and 3 centimeters wide, while leaves positioned higher on the stem are much smaller in size. The upper section of the stem holds a spikelike inflorescence made up of many delicate, translucent green flowers, which are sometimes fragrant during the evening. As indicated by its common names, this rein orchid has narrower petals than other related species, which gives its inflorescence a characteristic lacy appearance.
