The Soldier Orchid

The Soldier Orchid (Zeuxine strateumatica) is also commonly known as the Lawn Orchid, mostly because it is found popping up in grassy areas in the cool weather. This species is originally native to Asia but has become naturalized in the North American southeast and the Hawaiian Islands.

This orchid is considered a terrestrial orchid, often being found in lawns and disturbed grassy areas. Although not native to Florida, this plant is not considered noxious or invasive as it remains somewhat rare and does not run rampant. Although quite tiny, these orchids are tough. Full sun, full shade, moist boggy soil, drier soils and even cracks in cement can be homes for this diminutive flower.

Collected from various places in the lawn, from potted plants in our shade house and tiny stalks popping up in the bog garden, we have made a small collection of Soldier Orchids for display to the museum guests. These dainty little orchids can be found in our Savage Garden exhibit inside the BioWorks Butterfly Garden at MOSI Outside.

What's in a Name?

The Genus name Zeuxine derives from the Greek word zeuxis which means "united". This refers to the partial union of the lip and the column in plants of this genus.

The specific epithet, strateumatica, derives from the Greek word strateuma which means "band, company, or army"