Small whorled pogonia, Isotria medeoloides, is one of the rarest orchids in North America. It recently made the news when discovered in Vermont, whereas it was previously known only in Maine and New Hampshire. Since its designation in 1982 as "endangered," it has now been declared "threatened". With odd habits, such as its seeds' ability to remain in the ground unsprouted for 20 years and remain viable, this delicate yellow and white flower emerging from a whorl of 5 leaves grows mostly in mixed hardwood-softwood forests of average age. The watercolor painting on Arches paper is suitable for a botanical publication or educational brochure.
