Spiranthes cernua var. odorata

(syn: Spiranthes odorata) Truly, an orchid for all gardens...or as close as we will come. This easy-to-grow native orchid is the southern form of Spiranthes cernua (or a separate species depending on your choice of taxonomists), ranging from Virginia south to Florida. The ground-hugging, dark-green rosettes spread slowly by underground rhizomes, creating a nice colony when growing in native habitats such as moist soils, bogs or swamps. In mid-September, the insignificant rosettes produce incredible 1' tall spikes spiraled with small, white, bell-shaped flowers, emitting a delightful fragrance often described as a cross between vanilla and jasmine...a superb plant everyone should grow!