An Orchid in Winter

One of the best parts of living in Georgia is all the greenery in winter. One of our native orchids, Cranefly Orchid (Tipularia discolor) reveals itself throughout winter. Amidst all the degrading leaf litter, the singular leaves really stand out.

(Tipularia discolor)

Okay, maybe it doesn't really jump out at you. But, believe me, these leaves are really one of kind. A simple flip of the leaf shows the brilliant purple underside.

I never tire of peaking under these leaves to see that color. But, these leaves will disappear before the flowers appear in the summer. If I can remember where these leaves are now, hopefully I can locate the flowers in a few months.