Spiranthoideae

Spiranthoideae is a subfamily of orchids, belonging to the family Orchidaceae. It is characterized by its distinctive flowers, which are often white or cream-colored and have a unique shape with a prominent lip. The subfamily is named after the genus Spiranthes, which is one of its most well-known members. Spiranthoideae is found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, and is distributed across North America, South America, and parts of Asia and Africa. The flowers of Spiranthoideae are pollinated by various insects, including bees and beetles, and the plants reproduce through seed. The subfamily is of interest to botanists and horticulturists due to its unique characteristics and the challenges it presents in cultivation.