In Ky. this distinct northeastern species is known mostly from calcareous rocky banks of medium-sized streams along the western margins of the Appalachian Plateaus. Optimal habitat appears to include low muddy cracks among boulders. It has also been found by R. Thompson on a limestone quarry floor in CLAR. S. lucida is the earliest flowering Spiranthes in the state, usually during May-Jun; 2n = 44 (versus 30 in most others). Lips are yellow to orange-yellow, with greenish veins; other petals and sepals are pure white.