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.
Heading up to Perth for a few days so made sure to stop along the way to look for some orchids in flower. First stop after 2 or so hours of driving is at the rock in Pallarup Nature Reserve. Only had a quick 15 min walk around and found 3 species.
Pink Candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea)
(Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea)
Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata)
(Ericksonella saccharata)
Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii)
There are 2 species of Frog greenhoods, but I did not obtain a closeup pic of the labellum, which is a distinguishing feature, so have listed the original name for now.
(Pterostylis sargentii)
Next stop was at the Lake Grace Lookout for a lunch break and of course an orchid hunt.
So today I am heading out orchid hunting with another orchid enthusiast. We connected via the South East WA Orchid Group on Facebook. Luc has kindly offered to use his vehicle for the adventure. We have decided to head out east of Esperance and will be sharing our locations and techniques for finding orchids.
Our first location is Mount Ridley. He we pull up on the track, near a low granite outcrop, on the drive in from Dempster Road. This proves a fruitful location as we find multiple species within say 50sqm.
First picture taken is of the Cream spider orchid (Caladenia horistes). They are endemic to WA and are distributed between Southern Cross, Fitzgerald River N.P. and Balladonia. Grow in woodland and mallee scrubs, in damp locations on or around granite outcrops and along seasonal drainage lines.
(Caladenia horistes)
A nice triple headed donkey orchid is then captured in pixels. The Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae) as the names suggests, grows in shallow soil pockets on granite. Also occurs in deeper sandy-clay soil along drainage lines. Distributed between Paynes Find and Balladonia.
(Diuris hazeliae)
Next up the Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) is found scattered across the site. These endemic white orchids are distributed between Paynes Find and Israelite Bay although absent on the West Coast and in the far South West. They grow in a variety of habitats including heaths, woodlands, mallee scrubs and granite outcrops, on sandy to clay to gravelly loam soils.
(Ericksonella saccharata)
Time for a blue orchid to be recorded. The Blue beard (Pheladenia deformis) is also known as the Blue fairy orchid. In WA they are found growing from Murchison River to Israelite Bay. They also occur in SA, Vic, Tas, and NSW. Varied habitats from the coast to inland plains and foothills.
(Pheladenia deformis)
And the last orchid found at this location is the Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima). Found between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay growing in sandy and sandy-clay soils in woodlands and shrublands.
(Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima)
We move onto the main parking area and head into the bush adjacent to the granite outcrop. After quite some time of not finding anything in flower I stumble across a patch of small orchids. Very excited as I have only found these particular orchids once before. Back in 2018 at Wattle Rocks along the Holland Track.
The Dwarf zebra orchid (Caladenia pachychila) is found growing between Nerren Nerren Station and Mt Ragged. Typically, an inland species growing in mallee heaths and scrubs, on sandy to clay loam soils, also in shallow soils on granite outcrops, usually sheltered under shrubs
(Caladenia pachychila)
Intermixed with the dwarf zebra orchids were some small spider orchids. They appear to be more Cream spider orchids.
(Caladenia horistes)
Moving a little further west along the rock edge, still in the bush, I come across a larger spider orchid. I believe this to be the Rigid white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. rigidulus). They are located between Ravensthorpe and Israelite Bay and inland to Balladonia growing in woodland and mallee scrubs, usually on or around granite outcrops. Also occurs on winter-wet flats and along watercourses.
(Caladenia longicauda susbp. rigidulus)
Where the track hits the granite in an isolated patch of vegetation I find another Yellow granite donkey orchid. Before we drive on, I quickly check out the Resurrection bush growing on the flat granite for any orchids. Here I found some more Cream spider orchids.
(Diuris hazeliae)
(Caladenia horistes)
Ok so now we jump back into the 4WD and take the track along the edge of the granite that leads up to the Aboriginal Rock Art.
Under the surrounding scrub a single Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta)is found. Located between Dumbleyung and Mt Ragged growing in mallee scrubs and woodland, on sandy to clay loam soils, also on and around granite outcrops in shallow gravelly soils.
(Cyanicula aperta)
Another solitary orchid found was the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva). These occur between Geraldton and Israelite Bay growing in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands. In inland areas it is also known to occur on granite outcrops in shallow soil pockets.
(Pterostylis recurva)
The Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile)was found growing in the moss on a shallow soil pocket in the granite rock. These orchids occur between Shark Bay and Eyre also growing in sandy, sandy-clay and granitic soils in woodlands and shrublands. Near the coast they also occur in seasonally wet flats.
(Prasophyllum gracile)
In the scrub above the rock art Luc stumbles across a great bunch of Rigid white spider orchids, so I just have to share a pic of these.
(Caladenia longicauda subsp. rigidulus)
Also found nearby was a single Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa) still in flower. In WA these occur between Nerren Nerren Station and Balladonia. They also are found in SA and western NSW. They are a common orchid growing in shallow soil pockets on inland granite outcrops as well as sandy, sandy-clay and granitic soils in woodlands and shrublands.
(Pterostylis setulosa)
Also found was a Sugar orchid, more Cream spider orchids and Yellow granite donkey orchids.
Another first found for the day was a Lemon scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera)growing in the middle of a resurrection plant. These are found between Shark and Israelite Bays, growing on creek margins, seasonally moist flats and granite outcrops.
(Thelymitra antennifera)
Time to move on so Luc takes us to a spot where he has found many Blue beards. It is along the track to the secondary parking area. There we found many Blue beards but many had finished the season already. We did have a quick look around for anything else. Alas nothing else found.
Blue Beards are found in various shades of blue/mauve and can even be found in white.
(Pheladenia deformis)(Pheladenia deformis)
Moving south down Dempster Road to one of my spots (Wittenoom hills3) in the Mt Ridley Nature Reserve which is a location new to Luc. It was here I found shell and greenhood orchids on a previous visit. It will be interesting to see what is found this time.
First up Luc finds the Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica). In WA these orchids are found between Wongan Hills and the SA border, whilst also being found in SA, Vic, NSW, Tas and southern QLD. They grow in sandy, sandy-clay and loamy soils in woodlands and scrublands.
(Pterostylis mutica)
Then a small spider is seen hiding in the dry gum leaves and sticks. I had not found this species at this location before, so that was exciting.
The Sigmoid spider orchid (Caladenia sigmoidea) is found between Mts Jackson and Ragged growing in mallee woodland on or around rocky outcrops, on heavy clay to lighter sandy loam and sometimes gravelly soils.
(Caladenia sigmoidea)
Found the shell orchid again but not in the numbers previously found.
The Dwarf shell orchid (Pterostylis brevichila) is found between Hyden and Mt Ragged growing in sandy-clay and clay soils in woodlands and shrublands.
(Pterostylis brevichila)
Close to the shell orchid more Sigmoid spider orchids were found. A very special one was discovered. It appears to be a hypochromic/lutea version. These lack certain colour pigments and usually appear yellowish white in colour.
Lutea (Caladenia sigmoidea)
Moving east along Norwood Road we pull into Mt Burdett which unlike Mt Ridley is found within the boundaries of the Nature Reserve bearing its name. We make our way around the base of the rock first, before climbing up to the Telstra tower. Orchids are found sparsely scattered around.
I will list those found at this location that had been found elsewhere today.
Jug Orchid Cream Spider Orchid Yellow Granite Donkey Orchid Western Tiny Blue Orchid
I have also included a video of the Cream spider orchids blowing in the wind, to provide you some idea of how hard it can be to get a good photo !!
Now for the more exciting finds here at Mt Burdett.
Firstly, comes the colourful Beautiful donkey orchid (Diuris pulchella)which occurs between Salmon Gums and Israelite Bay growing in shallow soil pockets on granite outcrops and deeper soils in surrounding shrublands.
(Diuris pulchella)
Next, we find the Pink bunny orchid (Eriochilus scaber subsp. scaber)still in flower. These small orchids are found between Jurien Bay and Cape Arid National Park usually after a previous summer bushfire. They prefer moist habitats, and our little patch is found growing in the moss on the granite rock.
(Eriochilus scaber subsp. scaber)
A single flowering Brittle snail orchid (Pterostylis timothyi)is the final orchid found at this location. They occur between Mt Lindesay and Mt Ragged and inland to Merredin, growing in sandy, sandy-clay, and clay soils in woodlands and shrublands
(Pterostylis timothyi)
Next stop is one of Lucs locations where he has found Curly locks before. This location is in Neridup2 along Coolinup Road.
Luc found the Southern Curly-locks (Thelymitra uliginosa) in flower which confirmed this was the correct spot. They are found between Busselton and Esperance (This location is over 50kms northeast of Esperance) growing in seasonally damp areas surrounding peaty swamps and granite outcrops.
(Thelymitra uliginosa)
Pics of orchids found here as before in previous locations: Jug Orchid Western Tiny Blue Orchid Cream Spider Orchid
I have also included a pic of the typical habitat we find the Southern curly-locks growing in.
(Pterostylis recurva)(Cyanicula aperta)(Caladenia horistes)Typical habitat for Southern Curly-locks
Another snail orchid is found, however due to its stature and bloated appearance I believe it to be another new species for the day: The Fawn snail orchid (Pterostylis parva). Found between Albany and Eyre and inland to near Lake King, growing in sandy, sandy-clay and clay soils in woodlands, shrublands and soil pockets on granite outcrops.
As the name suggests they are located between Bremer and Israelite Bays growing in clay and sandy-clay soils in seasonally moist woodlands and shrublands.
(Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa)
A bright yellow orchid comes into view. The Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementum) is found between Wongan Hills and Israelite Bay growing in sandy-clay soils in open woodland and shrublands.
(Diuris decrementum)
Another donkey orchid found, however a different species thus time.
The South coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii)is found between Ongerup and Esperance growing in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in mallee woodlands and shrublands.
(Diuris brockmanii)
Another smaller spider orchid is found, which is also whitish in colour.
This one appears to be the Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians)which is found between Kalbarri and Esperance growing in coastal heaths, woodlands, mallee scrubs, on granite outcrops and around salt lake margins, usually on well-drained sandy loam soils.
(Caladenia varians)
Final orchid for this location is the Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea).
This orchid is found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay growing in a variety of woodland and heath habitats, usually on sandy soils.
(Caladenia discoidea)
We move onto what will be our last location of the day. This is another new location for me and is further up Coolinup Road so is now a Mt Ney1 location.
First up we are astounded as to the numbers of spider orchids found in a small open area under the trees.
The Cream spider orchid is found singularly and in clumps all over whilst the Rigid white spider orchid appears as isolated individuals.
Next up is an exciting find. A Blue china orchid is found with another one turning up within 30mins of searching. Not 100% sure of the ID so posted then separately on iNaturalist. Appears they may be 2 different species. First one is confirmed as the Boyatup china orchid (Cyanicula sp. “Boyatup”) which has yet to be formally named. As the name suggests they have a restricted range east of Esperance.
(Cyanicula sp “Boyatup”)
And the 2nd orchid is confirmed as being the Granite china orchid (Cyanicula nikulinskyae) which is found between Fitzgerald River and Cape Arid National Parks. As the name suggests they can be found growing in shallow soil pockets on granite outcrops, however, are also found growing amongst low shrubs or in open herbfields, on well drained gravelly loam soils.
(Cyanicula nikulinskyae)
Another orchid found in quite good numbers was the Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura).
These occur between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay growing in woodland, mallee scrubs and on granite outcrops, in sandy to gravelly and clay loam soils.
(Caladenia brevisura)
Stumbled across an orchid that commences its season in August, so it is not fully open, however pic taken for recording purposes.
The Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)is found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay, growing in heaths, woodland, open forest and malee scrubs in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils.
(Elythranthera brunonis)
Orchids found previously today were also found at this location. Pics taken for recording purposes.
Common bee orchid South-coast donkey orchid Small mantis orchid Blue beard
Well what a day it has been. I took my first pic at 9.47am and my final pic at 4.07pm. Time to head back to Esperance 28 species recorded with a Lutea thrown in Plus 2 species of China orchids in 1 location An amazing day Thanks for the company, Luc
Keeping closer to home today I decide to go and check out the Kepwari Walk Trail. This trail is located in the Woody Lakes Nature Reserve. I park up at the spot between Woody and Windabout Lakes to commence the trail.
Not far along the track I spy some king spider orchids. They appear to be the Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora). The Esperance king spider orchid comes in many shape and colour variations. Some will have clubbed petals, some will be mostly red, whilst others have minimal clubbing and may be almost completely creamy-green in colour. These variations can make a positive ID difficult especially given the related Heberle’s spider orchid (C. heberleana) is found in Esperance and looks very similar. Let alone it hybridises with the Esperance white spider orchid (C. longicauda subsp. crassa). C. longicauda and a possible hybrid were also found today. Other specimens are found further along the track especially the area between Woody and Wheatfield Lakes.
Up on the high ground section which provides a great view over Woody Lake I find some classy Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia). Others are found further along as well, with a very pale pink, nearly white one being the highlight. Also found leaves and spent Mosquito orchids at base of a series of steps and in other patches.
Once down on the flats again and along the track between Woody and Wheatfield lakes the Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) appears. The yellow colouring differs between my camera and mobile phone pictures. The duller yellow I feel is closer to real life.
I did not complete the full trail before turning around as it is now lunch time and I’m starving. Orchid photos were taken on the way back to the carpark as well and are included in the pics already listed for each species. Just before making it back to the carpark I find a small orchid in bud. Pic was taken and I did plan to go back to check what it was when in flower. However, that was forgotten until way too late. Maybe next season.
So today we decide to head north of Esperance to see what the season has produced. We don’t get far before we pull into our first stop of the day. Helms Arboretum is always a favourite stop.
Starting off small the first orchid found was the Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana).
These orchids are found growing between Lancelin and Esperance. They have only recently started flowering as their season commences in August and extends to early-November.
They are recorded as growing to heights of 400mm which would be amazing to find. Our specimens are more around the 200mm range.
Next our targeted orchid the Grass-leafed spider orchid (Caladenia graminifolia) was found.
These orchids also commence their flowering in August, then until September only.
They range from Mt Manypeaks to Israelite Bay so appears restricted to the south coast.
The Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora)was represented by a single specimen found nearby the aforementioned orchids.
This king spider orchid is located from Bremer Bay to Cape Arid. Its season is mid-August to October.
We don’t stay longer at Helms as we only popped in here to find a flowering Grass-leafed spider orchid.
Our next stop is near Gibson14. We walk along the tracks and every so often we venture into the surrounding scrub.
This subspecies is the most widespread and ranges between Northampton and Israelite Bay. It also has the longest flowering season; July to early-December.
There are 4 subspecies of the Cowslip orchid. The other 3 are restricted to much smaller ranges that all overlap the range of the subspecies found around Esperance.
We did make an exciting find of a hammer orchid leaf in bud. From the leaf I believe it will be the King-In-His-Carriage orchid (Drakaea glyptodon).
These orchids flower August to October over a range between Eneabba and Esperance.
However, the most prolific orchid found at this location was the Esperance king spider orchid.
It was found either as a lonely specimen or in good size groups.
If any of the flowers pictured are the similar C. heberleana, please comment on this post.
We move further north up the highway to another location in the Gibson area 15. A gate had been installed which precluded us for heading down the track. We instead checked out the verge and walked a bit into the scrub.
This unusual but common orchid is found between Geraldton and Israelite Bay.
Flowering season is only from August to October
Deb has her eye in for spying orchids as she stumbles across an exciting find for this location.
The first orchid found is so small. Refer pic with the tip of my index finger for size comparison.
The Reaching spider orchid (Caladenia arrecta) is so named due to its erect petals.
Found between Bindoon and Israelite Bay.
Flowering season from late-July to mid-October.
We now move onto a new location, further north. We turn left at Hawkey Road them immediately right into Swan Lagoon Road. Our first stop 16 along this road is down a track in some bushland. We take this slowly and regularly get out to walk along and into the surrounding scrub. It is along this track that we pull over and have lunch from the back of the Triton.
The orchid that stands out for this location is the Western Tiny Blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta). It was found in huge numbers.
They are found flowering from August to early-October between Dumbleyung and Mt Ragged.
They have horizontally held petals and lateral sepals and can grow up to 150mm in height.
Another very similar orchid is also found, however not is such great numbers.
The Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) flowers in August and September between Paynes Find and Israelite Bay.
A small number of Midget greenhoods (Pterostylis mutica)were found along the way.
These orchids flower from July to October between Wongan Hills and the SA border.
They can grow to 200mm in height and can have up to 15 small green flowers.
A further Pterostylis orchid is found in small numbers.
The Brittle snail orchid (Pterostylis timothyi) flowers July to September between Lake Cronin and Esperance.
Some distinctive features are having a small rosette of pointed prominently veined leaves and only one or two stem leaves.
The we find one of the newest named Greenhoods. The Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula) was formally named in 2018.
The flower between Dalwallinu and Eyre bird observatory during the months June and July.
As we are now in August this could explain why we only found two still in flower.
Amazingly we find a Grass-leafed spider orchid in this new location. So that makes a third spot we have found this orchid. Helms and Stokes NP are the other locations.
Another orchid of the Pterostylis genus is found. Only one specimen found, so was very lucky to have spotted it.
This time it is the Dwarf shell orchid (Pterostylis brevichila) which flowers from July to September.
It has an inland southeastern range, occurring from Hyden to Mt Ragged.
The Jug orchid is found at numerous spots in this location.
Pictures taken for registration purposes.
Just before we decide to have a break for lunch, we finally find a donkey orchid.
There are 2 possible ID’s for these orchids. They could be the South Coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii)or the Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae).
Flowering is June to early August and Aug to September respectively. So, the ones that already have finished flowers could very well be the former.
As both are recorded for the Grass Patch area any assistance in positive ID would be appreciated.
Note the brightness of the yellow is greatest with the mobile phone pics.
Whilst eating lunch we still explore nearby. It is here we find some different orchids than found previously today.
These orchids flower from August to early-October between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay.
The flowers are green, yellow and red in colour and can grow up to 350mm in height.
The prominently upcurved lateral sepals are distinctive to most mantis orchids.
Back on Swan Lagoon Road we travel further north and pull into another track which is much shorter, so we walk it. 17
Blown away by the numbers of Western tiny blue orchids found.
I have posted a video below to show how many occur in say 1 square metre.
So many Western tiny blue orchids
Another previously found orchid is also found in greater numbers.
The Midget greenhood rears it lime green coloured head again.
Also found was another Mallee banded greenhood.
Moving further north again we make a final stop in the Swan Lagoon Nature Reserve. Initially we turn up nothing in the lagoon area however further afield our luck changes.
Seems a regular occurrence today. Blue beards are also found in greater numbers than earlier today.
Well, we finally start finding the small spider orchids in flower. Actually, we find loads of them, and they may possibly be 2 species.
This orchid is a common southeastern inland species. It is found between Kondinin and Madura.
Flowers occur July through to early-October.
If another species is apparent from the pictures supplied, can you please enlighten me. I am swaying to C. dimidia or C. horistes
Intermixed with the wispy style spider orchids we also find the Short sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura)standing proud.
These orchids flower between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay during August and September.
The common name refers to the shortened sepal tips, when compared to the similar C. doutchiae.
Larger spider orchids appear as we progress with our exploration of this Nature Reserve.
Due to the shorter length of the petals and sepals, plus the dull white colouring I believe they are the Reclining spider orchid (Caladenia cruscula).
These orchids are found between Salmon Gums and Mt Ragged / Israelite Bay.
Flowering during August and September.
More donkey orchids are found near the large spider orchids.
Positive ID again not attempted. Could be D. hazeliae or D. brockmanii. Thoughts??
Midget and Mallee greenhood orchids were also found at this location. Pics for recording purposes.
Our final orchid of the day was the small Sigmoid spider orchid (Caladenia sigmoidea) which was very exciting.
The name “Sigmoid” refers to the ‘S’ shaped labellum tip.
These orchids grow between Mt Jackson and Mt Ragged.
Flowering during the months of July, August and September.
They are very small, ranging from 50 to 150mm in height. Their colouring blends into their surroundings. This makes finding them difficult.
We were blown away by the numbers found. Previously, we have only found them solo or as spread-out isolated specimens.
Well, this hunt was a great success. So many orchids found, with some in huge numbers. The highlights were the patches of Western tiny blue orchids and the large number of Sigmoid spider orchids found.
On the hunt for that elusive Winter Spider Orchid. To improve our chances, we are heading over to Lake King. To provide as much time as possible we have booked into the Lake King Tavern Motel for Saturday night.
However, as is usual for us we never go anywhere directly. Orchid hunting stops will be made along the way, plus we like to venture paths not previously travelled.
First up we check out a location in Coomalbidgup3 where we come across some bunny orchids.
Pictures of two findings only taken with the leaf not visible in one. The second pics show very small smooth margined leaves.
Unable to give a positive ID based on these pics so will leave as ??? bunny orchid (Eriochilus sp.)
The next couple of locations, one in Coomalbidgup4 and one in Munglinup,5 did not turn up any orchids.
I did come across a large Beehive located under a rocky overhang. I gave it a wide berth.
Another 2 stops made on the roadside verge of Lake Ace Nature Reserve followed by Kathleen Nature Reserve.
No luck in finding any orchids in flower.
We then visit a previously visited (Lake king 6) site nearby and here we only find some spent Pygmy orchids (Corunastylis fuscoviridis).
Oh well that was not a very successful day, orchid wise, however getting out in the bush is always enjoyable.
After spending a wonderful night at Lake King, we enjoy a leisurely morning. The after the 10am check-out we finally head out for further exploration.
Damnosa and Pallarup Nature Reserves are both checked. Unfortunately, nothing other than further spent Pygmy orchids are found.
Oh well time to go home and back to work on Monday.
The Winter spider orchids will have to wait for another year.
