Hidden in the greenways, parks, and backyards of Nashville are several varieties of stunning native orchids. The vibrant, three-petaled flower has been revered for centuries for its exoticism and inspirational qualities. But these natural treasures, long part of a rich folk tradition, have been largely forgotten by many Nashvillians. This useful guidebook offers a comprehensive look into the secret lives of Davidson County’s six native orchid species. Alongside vibrant, eye-catching photographs of plant life cycles that provide a straightforward way for readers to quickly identify these varieties, the book offers the fascinating history of these wild wonders as told by author Soraya Cates Parr, a passionate horticulturalist with a knack for explaining the natural world in an accessible way.

More than just a useful guide to Nashville’s flora, Nashville Native Orchids is a reminder of the risk that unbridled urban development can pose to the delicate natural ecosystem. Throughout the book, Parr shows the local effects of climate change on Nashville’s native orchid population and advocates for a more sustainable approach to development. Beyond the environmental dimensions, this book presents an illuminating discussion of the historical significance of orchids and their central role in folkloric traditions.

After many years as a professional touring musician, Soraya Cates Parr obtained her degree in plant and soil science and became the orchid specialist at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens in Nashville. Her articles have appeared in the American Orchid Society’s Orchids magazine.

Foreword
The Hidden Treasures of Nashville
Chapter 1. Basic Orchid Science
Chapter 2. Tropical and Terrestrial Orchids: What are the Differences?
Chapter 3. Orchid Myths, Rituals, Traditions, and Uses
Chapter 4. Climate Change, Sad Exchange
Chapter 5. The Ecology of Native Orchids and Spiders
Chapter 6. Galearis spectabilis
Chapter 7. Goodyera pubescens
Chapter 8. Liparis liliifolia
Chapter 9. The Spiranthes cernua Complex
Chapter 10. Tipularia discolor
Chapter 11. Cypripedium parviflorum var. pubescens
Epilogue: The Ultimate Gift
Appendix: Locating Nashville Native Orchids throughout the Year
A Conservation Note
An Explanation of Scientific Names
An Explanation on the Folklore Sections
Glossary
Bibliography