First Native Orchids of the Spring
 

Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis, distinguished from var. americana by the white "beard" (yellow in the other variety) and the brown markings (missing in the other variety) on the lip. They are several weeks early this year, and at their peak at lower elevations.

I've been very busy and haven't been around much. Appreciate the comments and likes from the many friends here on OB and hope to be around a bit more this spring and summer. Wish everyone a pleasant and enjoyable spring and summer with lots of orchids in bloom.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8100/8...1ec06137_t.jpg

Many more pictures here:
Native Orchids of the Pacific Northwest and the Canadian Rockies: First Native Orchids of the Spring

Such charming blooms!
Disgusting someone dug up the white one :((

I'm glad to see you here - I had been missing your posts, but understand sometimes life requires us to pay attention to other things :p

Thanks, Sonya. Good to be back and to see some of the many posts I've missed.

Its still too early for our native orchid to bloom, so its nice to see the ones in your area in bloom

Thanks, FD. They are quite early here this year.

very nice! I wish I had time to go look for them around here :((

Very Pretty

Thanks, Monika and S. We try to make time and usually do somehow or other.

love the color and the shape is quite unique like a bird getting ready to fly, or so to my imagination. :)

We were just out to see them again this afternoon. Birds in flight, Fairy Slippers - they are all that and more. They are such an important part of spring that I can't imagine spring without them.