At less than 6 inches tall, the Soldier Orchid (Zeuxine strateumatica) often goes unnoticed.
| Rank | Scientific Name and Common Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae – Plants |
| Subkingdom | Tracheobionta – Vascular plants |
| Superdivision | Spermatophyta – Seed plants |
| Division | Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants |
| Class | Liliopsida – Monocotyledons |
| Subclass | Liliidae |
| Order | Orchidales |
| Family | Orchidaceae – Orchid family |
| Genus | Zeuxine Lindl. – zeuxine |
| Species | Zeuxine strateumatica (L.) Schltr. – soldier's orchid |
In India and Pakistan it is used as a salep, which is a flour made from the tubers! They, along with the ancients in Rome, considered a drink made with the salep to be a powerful aphrodisiac! Our native Seminoles (the tribe, not the college football team) agreed.
Zeuxine strateumatica (L.) Schlechter Soldier's Orchid; Orchidaceae
Seminole Drug (Gynecological Aid)
Decoction of whole plant taken and used as a wash for barrenness.
Sturtevant, William 1954 The Mikasuki Seminole: Medical Beliefs and Practices. Yale University, PhD Thesis (p. 318)
Zeuxine strateumatica (L.) Schlechter Soldier's Orchid; Orchidaceae
Seminole Drug (Reproductive Aid)
Decoction of whole plant used as a wash for impotency.
Sturtevant, William 1954 The Mikasuki Seminole: Medical Beliefs and Practices. Yale University, PhD Thesis (
Hardly noticed on a lawn, this hardy terrestrial beauty is found in full sun, partial and full shade. Be sure to check your lawn, garden and local roadsides!
These photos were taken with a recently acquired Vivitar Wide Angle/Macro converter. Works great and under $15!
