After a wonderful sleep in beautifully restored and decorated bedrooms we leave Greenhills but not before checking out a few of the historic landmarks. Next on the days agenda is a visit to Meckering which was the site of an earthquake back in 1968. Memorial visited as well as a ruined homestead. Lunch is enjoyed in the townsite of Minnivale where I have a quick orchid hunt. I stumble across the Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa).
Greenhills BakeryMeckering Earthquake Memorial ParkDiuris brachyscapa
Travelling in a NW direction we check out Mollerin Rock and it’s nearby Nature Reserve. After a 2hr search the following orchids were encountered: Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera), Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile), Small flowered donkey orchid (Diuris porrifolia), Ant / Clown orchid (Caladenia roei), Dainty blue orchid (Cyanicula amplexans), Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava), Candy orchid (Caladenia hirta), ?? rufous greenhood (Pterostylis sp.), Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) and possibly the Salt Lake spider orchid (Caladenia exilis subsp. exilis)??
Given our next planned pub stay is only 22kms as the crow flies to the NNE we decide to firstly explore Beverley on foot with Jan and Bob. We check out the old buildings, numerous murals and artworks as well as the Railway Station precinct.
Leaving Beverley around 9am, we headed northwest to Wandoo National Park to visit Mount Observation. We started by exploring the picnic areas and car park, then wandered along the roadside. Overall, we were lucky enough to spot the following species: Blue beard / Blue fairy orchid (Pheladenia deformis), Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid (Caladenia falcata), Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva), Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea), Candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp hirta), Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava), Silky blue orchid (Cyanicula sericea), Bird orchid (Pterostylis barbata), Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera), Big clubbed spider orchid (Caladenia magniclavata) and Clubbed spider orchid (Caladenia longiclavata).
We are currently as far west as out travels will take us. Heading back east we call into York for a look and take the opportunity for a bakery lunch. Moving further east along Goldfields Road we pull over for a photo opp. It is here we part ways with Jan and Bob and will catch up at Greenhills our next overnight stop. Deb and I continue along the road until we stop at the Wallaby Hills Nature Reserve. Here we go exploring and stumble across the following orchids: Cowslip orchid, Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata), Jug orchid, Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid, Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis), Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa), and finally a spent Hare orchid (Leporella fimbriata).
We leave Wallaby Hills N.R. as we need to start our way back toward Greenhills. We pull into Doodenanning and check out the sports ground, hall and community sheep dip before moving onto the cemetery. (Doodenanning 1) Whilst looking around we uncover the following orchids: Western wheatbelt donkey orchid, Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) and possibly a hybrid? Tangled white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. redacta), Candy orchid and Stark white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens).
Leaving Doodenanning we travel west along the same named road until pulling over to check out a roadside verge. (Greenhills 1) As it is now 4.30pm we have a quick wander around and still find the following orchids: Yellow spider orchid (Caladenia denticulata subsp. denticulata), Crimson spider orchid (Caladenia footeana) or could it be Clumped / Strawberry spider orchid (Caladenia denticualta subsp. rubella) due to the less prominent stripes on labellum. Thoughts? Pouched leek orchid (Prasophyllum cyphochilum) and unsurprisingly the Western wheatbelt donkey orchid.
It is now past 4.30pm so we make the quick drive to Greenhills where we check into our amazingly restored hotel, the Greenhills Inn. We found out it had been sold and the new owners are not renewing the liquor licence so it will no longer be a hotel and will be converted to an Artist Retreat. So glad we got to experience it before it becomes an exclusive place.
After enjoying our pub breakfast with Jan and Bob, we go our separate ways and will catch up again at Hotel Beverley our next overnight stay.
Deb and I decide to have a walk around Cuballing to start the day and took some tourist snaps.
Memorial in CuballingMemorial in CuballingCuballing CWACuballing HallCuballing Post OfficeOld bank building
After a wonderful walk around town we drive east out of Cuballing to the Commodine Nature Reserve for our first orchid exploration of the day.
This proved a great location with many species found, starting with the good olde faithful Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava). However, one particular specimen could be the Brookton Highway cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. ‘late red’) due to its size and colouring. Thoughts?
The Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata) was found all over the area checked. The rest of the orchids found were not in such numbers but still a buzz to find: Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid (Caladenia falcata), Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata), Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata), Dark banded greenhood (Pterostylis sanguinea), Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa), Little pink fairy (Caladenia reptans subsp. reptans), Small-flowered donkey orchid (Diuris porrifolia), Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta), Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea), Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) and Un-named caladenia hybrid (Caladenia flava x reptans).
What a great location, with 12 or more species found, with 1 hybrid.
Cyanicula gemmataCaladenia falcataEricksonella saccharataPterostylis vittataPterostylis sanguineaPterostylis setulosaCaladenia reptans subsp. reptansDiuris porrifoliaPterostylis occultaCaladenia hirta subsp. roseaPterostylis recurvaCaladenia flava x reptansSize comparison of Blue China orchid
After nearly 2 hours we move back to the Great Southern Hwy, then. north to Yornaning, where we check out the dam walk trails before we have a picnic lunch. A good number of orchid species are found as follows: Common donkey orchid (Diuris corymbosa), Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid, Banded greenhood, Cowslip orchid, Blue china orchid, Candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. hirta), Jug orchid and Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera).
However, by far the most prolific orchids found belong to the Filamentosa complex of the Caladenia genus. Identification of particular species within this complex always proves challenging and the finds at this location confirm this conclusion.
Possible species found are: Chapman’s spider orchid (Caladenia chapmanii), Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma), Crimson spider orchid (Caladenia footeana), Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia), Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians) and Tenterden yellow spider orchid (Caladenia staminichila).
I have attempted to name all but one of my pics so feel free to comment on your thoughts.
Well, this was an amazing lunch spot, but all good things must come to an end, so onwards we move. Northwards past Popanyinning and Pingelly we head then pull into Kulyaling Nature Reserve for a first-time exploration. First up I check out the western side of the Avon River before walking over the bridge to join Debbie for an exploration of the eastern shore. Other than some amazing orchid finds we also come across the abandoned cricket pitch as recorded in Maps.
Orchids found in no particular order, on either shore of the river are as follows: Candy orchid, Small-flowered donkey orchid, Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid, Crimson spider orchid, Blue beard / Blue fairy orchid (Pheladenia deformis), Cowslip orchid, Sugar orchid and Blue china orchid.
Only 1 new species for the day, though we should not expect more given we are within 40kms NNW as the crow flies from our previous 2 locations.
We now head northwards past Brookton and then westwards to Dale where we checked out the historic Dale Community Hall and the Anglican church, St John in the Wilderness. A quick search and we found more Green spider orchids and Small-flowered donkey orchids.
Caladenia falcataSt John in The Wilderness (Anglican Church)Diuris porrifoliaDale Community Hall
As it’s now past 4:30, we head toward Beverley where our hotel stay awaits. Driving along Westdale Road, we spot a sign for Dale River Reserve, so we turn onto Deep Pool Road to check it out, about 4 km in.
At first, not much is discovered, but with closer inspection, the following species are revealed: Candy orchid, Blue beard / Blue fairy orchid, Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile), Crimson spider orchid, Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid, and Small-flowered donkey orchid.
Another new species for the day, which is great, but we need to head off as it is now after 5.30pm.
Well, we arrive at the Hotel Beverley before 6pm and are greeted by Jan and Bob. We check in then proceed to have a great pub meal before hitting the sack. Around 23 species found today!!!!
After enjoying our hotel breakfast, we leave Newdegate and head towards Dragon Rocks Nature Reserve. Numerous stops are made along the track and then we explore the camping area which includes the flat granite rocks.
First orchid found was the Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata), then further along the track a possible Dwarf zebra orchid (Caladenia pachychila) is found. Open to correction on this one. Other common orchids found along the way include the: Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis), Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta), Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa) Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea).
Along the track in we also come across our first standard looking spider orchids. Again, like yesterday I feel they are all variations of the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia).
Further common orchids were found at the flat granite outcrop area, including the Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava), Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) and the Ant orchid (Caladenia roei).
Also found along the way was the Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) and 2 Pterostylis orchids from different complexes. One is a spent orchid from the Vittata complex and the other is a budding orchid from the Rufa complex. Naming these is not possible.
Now onwards to our next stop, which was an unplanned stop at the intersection of Kulin-Holt Rock Road, where we found a memorial of the Holland Track, so pulled in for a photo op. Also took the opportunity to quickly explore the verge side vegetation for any orchids. Actually, found some including the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) and more Chameleon spider orchids.
Pterostylis recurvaCaladenia dimidia
Heading west along the Kulin-Holt Rock Road we come to our planned lunch stop, Buckley’s Breakaway, which is located in the Un-named Nature Reserve No. WA27485. After a bite to eat we venture along the trail into the breakaways, which are an amazingly site. (Refer feature image)
Of course, our eyes are looking for orchids as we stroll along. We are not disappointed as we first come across the Sugar orchid, followed by the Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii) and an unknown Banded greenhood (Pterostylis sp.). I originally identified this as the Mallee banded greenhood (P. arbuscula) however it is listed as flowering in early winter so it may just be a short specimen of the Dark banded greenhood (P. sanguinea)which does flower into September and is also listed as occurring in this vicinity. Please provide comments to assist with the ID.
On the return journey 2 more orchids are found. The Brittle snail orchid (Pterostylis timothyi) and more Western wheatbelt donkey orchids.
Pterostylis timothyiDiuris brachtscapa
We move on towards Kukerin our planned overnight hotel stay. However, we first make a planned orchid hunt and bush walk at a spot called The Jam Patch, which is located at the old North Lake Grace tennis club.
Orchids found that had been found earlier today include the: Pink candy orchid, Western wheatbelt spider orchid, Little laughing leek orchid, Chameleon spider orchid.
New orchids for the day include the: Salt lake spider orchid (Caladenia exilis subsp. exilis)* Cream spider orchid (Caladenia horistes)* Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae)* Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis), Possible hybrid, parents unknown (Caladenia x)*
Orchids marked with * may not be separate species, possibly just C. dimidia, D. brachyscapa, or C. radialis so please correct me in the comments section if so.
Today is the day that our Pub Crawl around the Southeast of WA commences. We head off in the Triton around 8.45 am and venture over to Nulsen to pick up our travelling companions for the adventure, Bob and Jan. First stop is at the Munglinup1 Roadhouse, where I take the time to have a very quick check for orchids.
8 species are found, which is quite unbelievable. First up, the reliable Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) is found. Next is a large white spider orchid, which, given its location, I will name the Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa). Thirdly is one of the smaller spider orchids from the Filamentosa complex. It is most likely the Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians). Next is the small Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana). The 5th orchid found is the Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera). A not fully opened Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis) is found next. The 7th orchid for the day is the Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea). Final and 8th orchid for this location is the Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima).
We now move on to the lookout on Ethel Daw Drive in the Ravensthorpe shire. Only 2 species were found along the roadside. First up is the Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta),followed by the Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata).
Cyanicula apertaEricksonella saccharata
Moving back to Elverdton Road, we head west and pull into a new location I will name Ravensthorpe1. Walking along this dirt track, we locate 4 species, 1 new for the day. Found again were the Small mantis orchid, Sugar orchid and Western tiny blue orchid. The new species for the day is the Common dragon orchid (Caladenia barbarossa). Terrible pictures were taken, so I will include only 2.
Passing through Ravensthorpe, will pull into Kukernup Memorial to have lunch. After having a bite to eat, we all venture out to explore the walk trail. It was a great spot, as we found 9 orchid species in flower. First up is the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva), Next, more Dancing spider orchids and Common dragon orchids are found. Also found again were more Small mantis orchids, Lemon-scented sun orchids, Cowslip orchids and Purple enamel orchids. Other new species found for the day are the Redbeak (Pyrorchis nigricans) and the Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii).
We now backtrack to the road leading to Lake King and head north. Next stop is one of our all-time favourite places. Pallarup Rocks picnic area provides loads of places to explore for orchids. We are not disappointed with the species located. First up are the Sugar orchid, Cowslip orchid, Jug orchid, Purple enamel orchid, and Lemon-scented sun orchid, which were all found earlier today at prior locations.
New species found start with the Ant orchid (Caladenia roei), quickly followed by the closely related Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura)and Purple-veined spider orchid (Caladenia doutchiae).
The next new species found for the day was the Pink candy orchid(Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) together with its hybrid – Tinged spider orchid(Caladenia x suffusa). So, now to find the other possible parent of the hybrid. Due to the location, I believe the other parent to be the Pallarup white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. ‘Pallarup’). Luckily specimens are found.
Caladenia hirta subsp. roseaCaladenia x suffusaCaladenia longicauda subsp. ‘Pallarup’
Once up on the granite rock we come across some donkey orchids. I believe them to be the Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae). I have posted images of 3 orchids as they may represent another species.
Diuris hazeliaeDiuris sp.Diuris sp.
A smaller whiteish spider orchid is found in various shades, however I feel they are all the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia).
Do you agree they are all one species?
Also found a nice bunch of what appears to be another orchid species, possibly the Central wheatbelt spider orchid (Caladenia sp. ‘central wheatbelt’) however is outside of the recorded location.
Another frog greenhood is found however on closer inspection; it is actually a Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta)due to the hairy narrow horn-like labellum structures. 2 pics posted to show this aspect as clearly as possible
Pterostylis occultaPterostylis occulta
Another new orchid for the day is the Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) which is found growing in shallow soil on the granite.
Other random hybrids are found during the search, and I will post them below for record keeping. Assigning parents is always difficult for hybrids especially between the Roei and Filamentosa complexes.
Unknown hybrid??Unknown hybridCaladenia doutchiae x hortistesPrasophyllum gracilePrasophyllum gracile
Well that is our final orchid stop for the day, so it is off to our first hotel stay. Night 1 is spent at the Newdegate Hotel. Checked out the Silo Art before settling in for the night.
Newdegate SilosNewdegate Hotel
23 species found with a possible 4 hybrids, plus a possible new species but outside its usual range.
Well, we are a bit late in our first orchid exploration this year, as it has been a hectic couple of months. Usually, we head out in late March or early April. As our usual suspects are found north of Esperance, we head out on Dempster Road for a look. We will mix it up, though, by visiting new locations, so our Scaddan 1 location is our first stop.
As with most early-season searches, the results are pretty average. The first orchids found were specimens of the Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata), which is found growing between Perth and Israelite Bay from late-April to early September.
The only other orchid found here was the Pygmy orchid (Corunastylis fuscoviridis), which is found between Corrigin and Eucla in WA, as well as in South Australia and Victoria. It is one of the first orchids of the season in WA, as it flowers from March through to May.
Moved onto another nearby location, Scaddan 2; however, this proved even less successful. The sole find here was the Hare orchid (Leporella fimbriata), which is found between Shark and Israelite Bays from March to June.
We leave Dempster Road and head west along Scaddan Road, where we make another impromptu stop. Scaddan 3. A rather overgrown sand track that required me to remove fallen branches or hold back overhanging shrubs to try our best not to scratch up the Mighty Triton too much. OMG, this was nearly a waste of time. Only found another Banded greenhood and a very spent Pygmy orchid. Pics for recording purposes.
Moving on to our last location of the day, which is located in the Speddingup East Nature Reserve. Here we spend around 1 hour looking around with not much luck. This time, only further Banded greenhoods and Hare orchids were found. Again, pics taken for recording purposes.
Driving back along the Coolgardie-Esperance Hwy, we make a quick check of our Gibson 15 location. Here we find our Robust snail orchids, but they are only starting to sprout, so we will need to revisit if we are to catch them flowering. Oh well, it was not such a great day out, but we did get to enjoy the fresh air and clocked up some steps, which is always good for us. Until next time!!
Today Deb and I decide to head out west of Esperance to see what we can find. Our first destination is Lake Monjinup which is located in the Lake Mortijinup Nature Reserve which is also referred to as Lake Monjingup Reserve. 3 different spellings and differing details on the size of the reserve make things rather confusing. This is only a quick check around the parking area as we have many kms to go today.
As would be expected the first orchids found were the Esperance king spider orchids (Caladenia decora). They are amazing large spider orchids that can be so dazzling in their colours.
Another dazzling orchid is found. These are the much smaller Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia) which as the name suggests are pink in colour. They do have a much larger range, occurring between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay in WA but are also found in Vic, Tas, and SA. The Esperance king spider by comparison is found only between Bremer Bay and Cape Arid in WA.
Our next stop is nearly 1 hours’ drive west in Coomalbidgup9. We park up off the road and venture into the roadside vegetation. This was just one of those “Let’s check this spot out” random choices. And guess what? It paid off this time 🙂
First up we find the Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)growing sporadically over the location searched. These orchids are found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay.
Another orchid found throughout this location was the bright yellow Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementum). These small orchids are found from near to Perth to east of Esperance.
A 2nd species of yellow orchid is also found. The common Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) was expected but is always a surprise to find as well. This particular subspecies is the most widespread of the 4 names subspecies.
Who would have picked it, another yellow orchid is found in good numbers. The Twisted sun orchid (Thelymitra flexuosa) grows with sedges and low shrubs in moist places such as the edge of swamps. It is found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay and is also found in southern Vic, south-eastern SA and Tas.
Also found at this location were more Esperance king spider orchids.
The discovery of the final orchid at this location was unexpected, as the area has not seen a recent burn. Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) typically flower following a summer fire however, rare specimens bloom without fire, which appears to be case in instance. Found between Shark Bay and Israelite Bay in WA and all Australian states except Qld and the NT.
Next stop is a new Coomalbidgup10 spot where the powerline gives easy access. Today, we encountered additional specimens of some previously identified orchids so I will post a picture of them to document their presence at this new location.
Red beaksPurple enamel orchidCowslipCommon bee orchid
New species for the day were also found. Firstly, came the Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa) which as the name suggests is found in a range between Bremer Bay and Cape Arid which includes Esperance.
A solitary Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta) was found. These small guys flower between Ongerup and Israelite Bay. Pics taken from different angles either highlight or diminish the blue colouring of the orchid flower.
And the final new species found at this new location was the bright Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera)which is found flowering between Shark and Israelite Bays.
We head further north up Neds Corner Road and make a random roadside stop at some low granite. On the West side of the road, it was covered in water but on the East side it was mainly dry. We found orchids on both sides of the road, though mostly the same as previously found today. Common bee orchids, Lemon-scented sun orchids and Cowslip orchids listed for recording purposes.
Common bee orchidCowslip orchidLemon-scented sun orchid
New species for today is found on the East side of the road. The Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima) is found flowering between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay.
A spent Jug orchid (Pterosylis recurva) was found as were some orchids yet to flower. Thelymitra, Microtis and possibly Prasophyllum orchids in bud and some leaves to tempt us. We move on but not too far of course 🙂
Microtis sp. in budThelymitra sp. in budJug orchidPrasophyllum sp. in bud ???Orchid leaves
Only a little way up the road will pull over at another random spot due to a change in vegetation cover. First up hiding underneath a shrub a compact clump of Western tiny blue orchids is found.
An exciting find here was a small patch of the Dwarf shell orchid (Pterostylis brevichila). These orchids are found flowering between Hyden and Mount Arid.
Another new orchid for today is found, from the Caladenia genus, which is always exciting. The Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura)is another easterly located orchid, as it grows between Ravensthorpe and Israelite Bay.
The next orchids found are the small Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) and the Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii) which are found from Watheroo to Esperance and Mullewa to Grass Patch respectively.
Then some further Esperance white spider orchids and Small mantis orchids are found. As usual I will post a pic of each for recording purposes.
As we proceed, we take a moment to reflect on the discovery of 15 distinct species of orchids. With additional locations yet to be explored, this promises to be a highly successful orchid hunting expedition. As I compose these blog posts several months after the actual date, I am dividing this day into three reports. Stay tuned for Part II and III.
Today I decide to start the Kepwari Walk Trail from the far eastern end, which is at Lake Wheatfield. As I did not start this walk till after 4pm I plan on getting to the spot I reached from my walk on the 25/08/2025, before turning back.
Orchids were found over the entire length of the walk, however, were never found in great numbers. I will just list the orchids in groups of the same species, even if found at different stages of the walk, as my memory will not allow me to provide a more detailed record of the exact locations found.
Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians)
Esperance king spider orchid
(Caladenia decora)
Esperance white spider orchid
(Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa)
Esperance hybrid spider orchid
(Caladenia decora x longicauda)
Small mantis orchid
(Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima)
I arrived back at the carpark just prior to sunset so took the opportunity to grab some pictures of this amazing sight. A perfect way to end a relaxing afternoon walk in the fresh air.
Time to head back to Esperance. I decide to take the Brookton Hwy direction and make my first stop along the highway in the State Forest in the Flint locale. At this random stop I was extremely lucky to stumble across the Bird orchid (Pterostylis barbata). This sole specimen though had not yet fully flowered, so its labellum was not visible. Also, the brown markings around where the labellum appears between the body forming petals was not yet evident. However, I am still confident in my identification.
Moving along the highway to the next Flint location1 in the hope that more species will be found. Parking up off the road I had a quick look around but was driven back to the car by a rain shower. I did find a nice donkey orchid specimen, however now the difficult task of identifying it. I am leaning toward the Common donkey orchid (Diuris corymbosa) which flowers from August to October. They are listed as growing between Mogumber and Tenterden in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands. (Colours differ due to mobile / camera pics)
Another orchid found in this quick search was a Silky blue orchid (Cyanicula sericea)which is distributed between Jurien Bay and Esperance. They occur from August to early-October and is found growing in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests and woodlands. They occur in greater numbers in the season following a summer bushfire.
The rain stopped for a bit so had another quick look and came across a wonderful Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva). These orchids are distributed between Geraldton and Israelite Bay growing in sandy-clay and clay soils in woodlands and shrublands.
Final orchid found at this location was the small Little Pink Fairy orchid (Caladenia reptans subsp. reptans) which is distributed between Northampton and Esperance. They are recorded as growing in a wide variety if habitats; from coastal heath to dry inland woodland in sandy to clay loam to gravelly soils.
Well, I didn’t get far along the highway before I made another stop, this time in Westdale1. Pulling off the road I make a beeline for the bush I hope to find the Blood spider orchid, as I have found it at this location on a previous visit. First up though I find some more donkey orchids flowering. Unsure of the ID as they may just be more Common donkey orchids D. corymbosa or may be another species. I will post to iNaturalist but they are rarely identified on that site either.
Then I stumble across a Green spider orchid (Caladenia falcata) which can also be referred to as the Fringed mantis orchid. These orchids are distributed between Wongan Hills and Jerramungup growing in a variety of woodland and shrubland habitats, on sandy to clay loam soils.
Then the targeted orchid is found, however in much lower numbers than before. As time is precious, I quickly take some pics of a couple, without exploring further. The Blood spider orchid (Caladenia filifera) is distributed between Wongan Hills and Tenterden growing in heathy to shrubby woodland and open forest, on clay loam, sometimes gravelly soils.
After successfully finding the Blood spider orchid it was time to move on. Further along the highway I pull into Jelcobine location9, in the Brookton Highway Nature Reserve. As per today’s previous locations the first orchid found was another donkey orchid. ID is proving difficult as 3 species are recorded in the Atlas of Living Australia for the surrounding area and the dorsal sepal is both erect and recurved in the flowers found. The options are Diuris brachyscapa, D. porrifoliaandD. corymbosa. Any help with identification would be appreciated.
Another yellow-coloured orchid is also found scattered over the location searched. The widespread and common Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) is distributed between Northampton and Israelite Bay. This orchid grows in a wide variety of habitats from wet forest and coastal heath to dry inland woodland, on deep sands to heavy clay loam soils.
Final orchid found at this spot was a solitary Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata)which occurs between Paynes Find and Israelite Bay growing in a variety of habitats including heaths, woodlands, mallee scrubs and granite outcrops, on sandy to clay to gravelly loan soils.
Now as I am writing this blog some 7 mths after the actual date I have forgotten where my final search was completed as it was nearly 3pm, so more than 3 hrs since the previous stop. I did however stop for lunch in Corrigin so feel it was near Hyden. Upon researching Google Maps I have deduced it was at the Lake Hurlstone Nature Reserve stop.
2 species located here were previously found today so I will only post pictures of these. They were the Sugar orchid and Jug orchid.
Donkey orchids were also found and as usual the ID is difficult however based on the location and number of flowers it appears to be the Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa). These orchids are found growing between York, Tenterden and Ravensthorpe in woodlands and on and around the margins of granite outcrops.
Next, I stumble across a couple of small spider orchids. They appear to be the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia) which is found between Paynes Find and Norseman growing in seasonally moist areas on granite outcrops, mallee woodlands and slopes to seasonal creeks.
Underneath some bushes I spied some Hairy-stemmed snail orchids (Pterostylis setulosa) still in flower. These little guys are found between Kalbarri and Balladonia in WA as well as in NSW and SA. They grow in shrublands, woodlands and shallow soil pockets on granite outcrops.
The next stop was another 1hr later so from using maps again I believe I may have pulled into Pallarup Nature Reserve; however, this place is usually full of orchids so not really sure. However, pics were taken so will post them here. The Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica) is found growing in WA between Wongan Hills and the SA border. Also found in QLD, Vic, NSW, Tas and SA. Grows in shrublands, woodlands and shallow soil pockets in granite outcrops, as it appears many of our orchid do.
Another long drive back to Esperance, though this one was broken up with some fruitful orchid explorations. More than 12 species found, especially given the Donkey orchids found may be a few different species given the distance covered. This is the last day of Winter down here in Australia, so tomorrow will be Spring and the so-called peak flowering time for WA orchids.
