Hexalectris spicata (Spiked Crested Coralroot orchid)

Yesterday, I heard that there were some Spiked Crested Coralroot orchids blooming on the grounds of the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

I think this is one of our most beautiful native orchids, so there was not a chance that I'd pass up the opportunity to photograph it.

This is a natural, non-planted, instance of native orchids growing in an undeveloped area inside the ABG. You never know where these beauties will appear next...