UPDATE: Report of ‘Wild Orchid’ Surveyed by HOS Group
Eulophia graminea (Chinese crown orchid). Photos by Joe Liggio.
In August, Cheryl Lenert, a member of several Houston-area garden clubs, reported to HOS member Sarah Bentley that she suspected a wild orchid was growing on her property in Montgomery County. Sarah gathered a small group to investigate. On a Saturday morning, Sarah, Daria Souvorova, Leonardo Ramos, and Donna Diggons met at the property, along with Joe Liggio, author of the book Wild Orchids of Texas (1999), to determine whether Cheryl’s suspicion would prove true.
Thanks to Joe’s expertise, the orchid was identified as the Chinese crown orchid (Eulophia graminea). The orchid, growing in several spots on the property, is a terrestrial orchid native to tropical and subtropical Asia. It is an invasive species in Florida but so far has not been deemed invasive in our state (please see updated information below).
Daria dug several bulbs of the ground-growing plant and has had success with additional blooms.
Shari Lewis provides update regarding this species as an invasive
Shari Lewis, a Texas Master Naturalist in the Coastal Prairie Chapter, reports that the Chinese crown orchid (Eulophia graminea) is, in fact, considered an invasive species in our area and notes that the article above about the HOS group investigating wild orchids in Montgomery County is incorrect. This orchid is everywhere where she lives, in practically every yard, introduced by infected mulch and/or unaware neighbors who have it blooming in their flower beds. People are not aware that it should not be present. Letting it flower is disastrous, as its seeds are spread by wind. She noted that this species should be destroyed when found in order to protect our native ecosystems.
Chinese crown orchid collected and replanted by HOS member Daria Souvorova.