any idea what this plant is?

[pavel]

When I went upstate to visit the parental units about a week or two ago, I was doing some weeding. I cam upon this plant. It is growing under a red twig dogwood shrub in northern Michigan

[ang709]

I think it is Epipactis helleborine, an orchid that, while native to Europe, has made its way here too. I don't suppose you'll be able to see it with the flowers open?

[pavel]

I think it is Epipactis helleborine, an orchid that, while native to Europe, has made its way here too.

Wow! That was fast! Hmmm, interesting! If it is an Epipactis, I wonder how it wound up in my parents' yard not to mention managed to not get "weeded" long enough to get this big?

I don't suppose you'll be able to see it with the flowers open?

Not likely. However I did ask my dad not to do anything to it. I'm planning on prevailing upon him to take a picture once it is in bloom.

[ang709]

I'm not sure how or when the plant was introduced to the US, but it seems to have spread fairly widely here now. I've seen it here in NY too.

[ang709]

Well, now I just read that it was introduced in 1888 near Rochester, NY and spread from there.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

Thanks Angie. I need to google this orchid to see the blooms now. Hope your dad will photograph it for us, Pavel.

cheers,
BD

[panam]

Don't tell it that it's an orchid. If it thinks it's a "weed" it will continue to grow strong and healthy!

[ang709]

Do you know if any of the blooms have opened yet? Has your dad sent you any photos?