Phantom orchid

A member of the family Orchidaceae (“orchids”), phantom or “snow” orchid as it is sometimes referred to is the only species of the genus Cephalanthera found outside of Europe and Asia. Phantom orchid is a myco-heterotrophic epiparasite that lacks chlorophyll and derives its food from a three-way partnership with an underground fungus and a (currently unknown) tree species. Phantom orchids may not flower every year, and although the flowers indicate the presence of the orchid, they do not reflect the full extent of the below-ground plants. Plants may have periods of dormancy, and it is unclear what factors trigger the production of the flowering stems. In BC, the phantom orchid is typically found in undisturbed old growth or mature second growth forests. It is typically found in coniferous or mixed forests, and it requires an intact below-ground fungal network. It usually grows in sites with sparse ground cover and thick leaf litter.