Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of orchid: "butterfly orchis" refers to either of two distinct orchid species known for their showy, often butterfly-like flowers. The term specifically denotes the plants Platanthera bifolia (lesser butterfly-orchid) or Platanthera chlorantha (greater butterfly-orchid) in European contexts, and can also refer to other orchids with a similar floral appearance.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We found a beautiful butterfly orchis growing in the meadow. (We found a beautiful orchid of the Platanthera genus growing in the meadow.)
  • The butterfly orchis is known for its fragrant white flowers. (This orchid species is known for its fragrant white flowers.)

Advanced Usage

• As a subject of botanical study: The term is used in precise botanical and horticultural contexts to identify specific species.
  • The conservation status of the native butterfly orchis is being monitored. (The conservation status of this specific orchid species is being monitored.)

Variants and Related Words

• Butterfly orchid: A more common variant name for the same or similar plants. This can refer to the species or to other genera like (dancing-lady orchid).
• Orchis: The genus name from which the common name is partially derived, though many plants called "butterfly orchis" are now classified under .

Synonyms

• Platanthera bifolia (scientific name for lesser butterfly-orchid).
• Platanthera chlorantha (scientific name for greater butterfly-orchid).
• Habenaria (an older, synonymous genus name sometimes used).

Notes on Different Meanings

The provided reference definitions point to two specific, different plants: 1. The first definition describes Orchis papilionacea, a Mediterranean orchid. 2. The second describes Epidendrum venosum, a Mexican epiphytic orchid. This illustrates that "butterfly orchis" is a common name applied to different orchid species in different regions, all typically having a lip that resembles a butterfly. The core meaning remains a type of orchid with a distinctive flower.

Noun

1. Mediterranean orchid having usually purple flowers with a fan-shaped spotted or striped rose-red lip
2. Mexican epiphytic orchid having pale green or yellow-green flowers with white purple-veined lip