Description

The stream orchid is an uncommon find in many locations in California and the West, where it thrives in sun to shade in moist settings. It spreads via rhizome to form a patch of upright leaves somewhat similar to a calla lily in appearance. The flowers are varied in color with shades of green, yellow and orange with purple veins. The ‘serpentine night’ selection was identified by botanist Roger Raiche in an ecologically distinct region of Sonoma County known as ‘The Cedars.’ It is characterized by burgundy hues in the stems and foliage. Plant ‘serpentine night’ in a moist setting in partial shade. Stream orchids go entirely dormant in the winter. New growth will appear in early spring.