Home    |     Image Library    |     Blog    |     Purchasing    |     Contact    |     About    |     Search

Image Library > Flora > Orchid Family >

Phantom Orchid (Cephalanthera austiniae)

Phantom orchid (Cephalanthera austiniae) is a mycoheterotrophic orchid species which obtains its nutrients from fungi through parasitism, opposed to typical photosynthesis. Lacking chlorophyll, this rare, bright white plant makes for a striking display on densely shaded forest floors.


Phantom orchid (Cephalanthera austiniae). Tahoe National Forest, Sierra Nevada, Nevada County, California, USA.
PLA0678


Phantom orchid (Cephalanthera austiniae), close-up of individual flowers coming into bloom. El Dorado County, Sierra Nevada, California, USA.
PLA0392


Phantom orchid (Cephalanthera austiniae). El Dorado County, Sierra Nevada, California, USA.
PLA0391

Next Plant: Royal rein orchid (Piperia transversa)



Interested in buying a print or licensing a picture? Click on the purchasing link for more information or contact us with any questions you may have. Thanks for looking!

Back To Top

All images copyright Timothy Boomer. All rights reserved worldwide.