Wild coco — native wild orchid — is reason to go hiking
Fall has arrived in Southwest Florida, which brings with it cooler temperatures. It makes it a perfect time of year to enjoy a hike outdoors.
Following this past summer’s rains, conditions are also excellent to find many of Florida’s native wild orchid species in bloom. One of these is wild coco (Eulophia alta), which is a fairly common native orchid species, especially in South Florida. Unlike the Florida butterfly orchid, whose roots attach to the branches of trees, the wild coco is a terrestrial plant, which means its roots grow from the ground. The herbaceous perennial can be discovered in a variety of natural areas, including moist open areas, woodlands and swamps.
Wild coco typically flowers from late summer through December or, occasionally, into early January. It can display anywhere between 20 to 40 or so individual flowers, each of which is approximately 2 inches in size and produce either a deep pink or purple color. Wild coco also bears a single stalk upon which the flowers emerge, beginning near the center of the stalk to the very top. The stalk typically grows to between 3 feet and 5 feet tall.
Several Conservation 20/20 preserves in Lee County include critical upland and wetland habitat to support the population of this orchid species. One of the most likely places to see wild coco and other native Florida orchids is Prairie Pines Preserve. Located in North Fort Myers, it features 20 miles of hiking and equestrian trails through mostly pine flatwoods, marsh and prairie hammock. A half-mile loop interpretive hiking trail is also available from the parking area.
The preserve is open daily during daylight hours; parking and entrance is free. Visitors should bring plenty water and pack a camera. The preserve features a restroom.
No plants are permitted to be collected from any Conservation 20/20 preserve; regulations are strictly enforced.
For more information, visit online at www.Conservation2020.org.
Prairie Pines Preserve is at 18400 N. Tamiami Trail.
Jason Boeckman is a coordinator with the Conservation 20/20 and Lee County Parks and Recreation Department.