Found along side trail in Virginia, northern. Color a bit off (I didn’t take photo) – says it ‘s more red. Basal round leaves on ground – none on stem. Not the white bog orchid, could it be a color variation??
Hi TL,
this is a wildflower known as ‘gaywings’ or ‘fringed polygala’, Polygala paucifolia. Because of its symmetry, it is sometimes mistaken for an orchid. It is certainly as pretty as many of our wild orchids! It is usually found in rich moist acid woods. It grows in the Upstate of South Carolina as well.
Sincerely,
Dr. Steven Hill, Botanist, SCNPS