Spotted Coralroot

[ronaldhanko]

In this case, so I have been told, there are distinct populations that are the reason for the varietal names, but that in some areas they interbreed and do shade into each other and are difficult to distinguish. I'm not experienced enough to testify to that personally. I do know, though, that with the green flowered Platantheras the same thing is the case making identification very difficult in some places.

[RosieC]

Yeah, I was thinking later on after my comments above that there are probably distinct populations in other areas. It's interesting to me though how its decided what makes a different species and what makes a different variety. Of course those who decide these things are always changing their minds anyway... nature does not necessary fit the strict compartmentalisation humans seem to want

[ronaldhanko]

Originally Posted by RosieC

Yeah, I was thinking later on after my comments above that there are probably distinct populations in other areas. It's interesting to me though how its decided what makes a different species and what makes a different variety. Of course those who decide these things are always changing their minds anyway... nature does not necessary fit the strict compartmentalisation humans seem to want

That hits the nail right on the head.

[Tindomul]

This is a beaut! Thanks for sharing.

[ronaldhanko]

Thanks, Tindo. You'll have to come to the Pacific Northwest some summer - you can consider that an invitation.

[Tindomul]

Thanks! I will consider it so.