If you were a chipmunk, you would still be taller than a particular wildflower in Pennsylvania that, at first glance, looks very much like an orchid.
In its natural habitat on the forest floor you could easily walk right past the Fringed Polygala, also known as GayWing or Bird on the Wing.
Can you spot it in this photo? It’s pink, in the center of the photo and the size of a dot! I took this photo from about 5 feet away while walking along Trinity Gorge trail at Beltzville State Park.
Natural habitat for Fringed Polygala
Now here is this beautiful wildflower up close. It stands about 3 inches tall and grows in colonies from April to May by creeping its stems along the ground.
The Pseudo Orchid of Penns Woods
The study of Ethnobotany claims this plant was used by American Indians to treat skin inflammations.
This macro photo really shows off this flower’s nickname of “Bird on the Wing”
Bird on the Wing
Up Close and Beautiful
How exquisite are the little things in life!
Ever grateful, Annie
How precious!
The woodlands in Spring are a treasure of hidden gems! Glad you like them!
precious find and capture! great close up shots
nothing beats a walk in the woods
You’re right! With a camera!
That is beautiful.
Thank you, Connie! I first met this flower back in 2000 when I was volunteering on a Wildflower Research Project.