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A RARE SIGHT

Thousands of Spotted Lady’s-slipper Orchids

 

In June, thousands of Spotted Lady’s-slipper orchids bloom and cover this forest floor. Orchids are usually solitary plants, growing in small patches with large distances in between. However, this slope is home to thousands in one place; a very special and rare sight to see.

 

Like all orchids, the seeds of the Spotted Lady’s-slipper require a certain fungus in the soil to germinate. This special partnership makes it very difficult to transplant the flowers and they nearly always die in the attempt. Disturbing these flowers can seriously damage this special place for many years to come.

Nowhere else in Yukon can you see so many orchids in one place. 

Please take only pictures and stay on the trail to avoid trampling the plants.