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!!!!
We awake to another beautiful spring morning, enjoy our breakfast then hit the road, but only for 100km before stopping for our first exploration of the day. Yilliminning Rock is in the locality of Boundain in the Shire of Narrogin.
First orchid located and picture recorded at 11.36am. Chapman’s spider orchid (Caladenia chapmanii) was found in varying shades so have posted numerous pics so you can appreciate the colours,
The exploration for the orchids took in the rock and the surrounding bush, which was completed after enjoying lunch.
We then move onto our overnight stop at the Cuballing Tavern, where we check in then as per yesterday Deb and I head off looking for orchids, whilst Bob and Jan do their own thing.
First exploration is done around the Cuballing Cemetery where we are pleased to find numerous species of orchids, some new for the day. First though I will list those found for the 2nd time today beginning with: Cowslip orchid, Green spider/ Fringed mantis orchid, Jug orchid, Small flowered donkey orchid, Sugar orchid and a Banded greenhood.
Then for the new orchid species of the day, starting with the beautiful Primrose spider orchid (Caladenia xantha) followed by: Slender snail orchid (Pterostylis crispula), Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata) and Stark white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens).
Well orchid hunting is done for the day, so it’s back to the tavern for a cold bevy and a good pub meal with Jan and Bob. With another 17 species found we head off to bed with a sense of fulfillment.
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
OK so we finally arrive at the promised land. The burnt area near Jerramungup. We spend just short of 1hr walking around the burnt-out landscape and find the Red beaks as expected in good numbers, however the other orchids were few and far between. They are recorded below as usual.
Habitat: Found between Shark and Israelite Bays, growing in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and scrublands. With rare exceptions, plants flower only in the season following a summer fire.
Habitat: Found between Northampton and Israelite bay, growing in sandy, sandy-clay, lateritic and granitic soils in forests, woodlands and scrublands. In inland areas the subspecies is found in isolated populations on granite outcrops and rocky hills.
Earlier this season (June) we checked out the burnt area north of Gibson and found greenhoods but nothing else. Now that we are at the other end of the season, we pop out there again to record what is now flowering. After nearly 3hrs searching the area, we were pleased to find so many orchids flowering. I hope you enjoy the photos below, that record what species we found.
Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media)
Season: Sept to Jan
Distribution: Shark Bay to Eyre
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media)
Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans)
Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans)
Season: Aug to Oct
Distribution: Shark Bay to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands. Usually only flower the season following a summer fire.
Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)
Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)
Season: Aug to early Nov
Distribution: Kalbarri to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana)
Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana)
Season: Aug to early Nov
Distribution: Lancelin to Esperance
Habitat: Sandy and sandy-clay soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Little pink fairy (Caladenia reptans subsp. reptans)
Little pink fairy (Caladenia reptans subsp. reptans)
Season: July to early Oct
Distribution: Northampton to Esperance
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Season: July to early Dec
Distribution: Northampton to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay, lateritic and granitic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Little pink fan orchid (Caladenia nana subsp. nana)
Little pink fan orchid (Caladenia nana subsp. nana)
Season: Late Sept to Oct
Distribution: Perth to Bremer Bay. ( 250kms to the West )
Habitat: Sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests and woodlands. Best in the season following a summer fire.
White fairy orchid (Caladenia marginata)
White fairy orchid (Caladenia marginata)
Season: Late Sept to Nov
Distribution: Jurien Bay to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy and sandy-clay soils in seasonally wet flats and runoff areas on granite outcrops. Flowers best in season following a summer fire.
Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata)
Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata)
Season: Aug to early Nov
Distribution: Kalbarri to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay, lateritic and granitic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Granite china orchid (Cyanicula nikulinskyae)
Granite china orchid (Cyanicula nikulinskyae)
Season: Sept to early Nov
Distribution: Fitzgerald River National Park and Israelite Bay
Habitat: Shallow soil pockets on granite outcrops. The recently integrated Condingup china orchid (C. sp ‘Esperance”) was listed as growing in shrublands and woodlands.
Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana)
Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana)
Season: Sept to Oct
Distribution: Augusta to Cape Arid
Habitat: Sandy and sandy-clay soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora)
Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora)
Season: Mid Aug to Oct
Distribution: Bremer Bay to Cape Arid
Habitat: Sandy-clay and clay soils in woodlands and shrublands.
Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima)
Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima)
Season: Aug to early Oct
Distribution: Jerramungup to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy and sandy-clay soils in woodlands and shrublands.
Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea)
Season: Aug to early Oct
Distribution: Kalbarri to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy soils in woodlands and shrublands.
Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea)
White mignonette orchid (Microtis alba)
White mignonette orchid (Microtis alba)
Season: Oct to Jan
Distribution: Dongara to Esperance
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and seasonally wet flats. Most common in the season following a summer fire.
Bee orchid (Diuris laxiflora)
Bee orchid (Diuris laxiflora)
Season: Sept to early Nov
Distribution: Gingin to Esperance
Habitat: Sandy-clay and clay soils in seasonally wet areas.
Twisted sun orchid (Thelymitra flexuosa)
Twisted sun orchid (Thelymitra flexuosa)
Season: Sept to Oct
Distribution: Kalbarri and Israelite Bay
Habitat: Seasonally-wet flats and shallow soil pockets on granite outcrops.
Swamp mignonette orchid (Microtis atrata)
Swamp mignonette orchid (Microtis atrata)
Season: Sept – Nov
Distribution: Jurien Bay to Israelite Bay. Also found in SA, Vic and Tas.
Habitat: Sandy-clay and clay soils in seasonally-wet flats.
Hybrid orchid (Caladenia x sp.)
Hybrid orchid (Caladenia flava x reptans)
Season: July to early Dec
Distribution: Northampton to Esperance
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay, lateritic and granitic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
18 species and 1 hybrid found in just over 2 and a half hours of searching in the 1 location. A SUPER SUNDAY!!!!!
A much earlier start to the day as we did not need to wait for the camper to dry out. We arrive at our first location by 8.30am and explore widely this time, as we have had quick visits on other occasions.
Chirelillup Nature Reserve
Green spider orchid
(Caladenia falcata)
Frog greenhood
(Pterostylis sargentii)
Western wheatbelt donkey orchid
(Diuris brachyscapa)
Jug orchid
(Pterostylis recurva)
??? greenhood
(Pterostylis sp.)
Sugar orchid
(Ericksonella saccharata)
Small mantis orchid
(Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima)
Joseph’s spider orchid
(Caladenia polychroma)
Cowslip orchid
(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Slender spider orchid
(Caladenia pulchra)
Well after our extensive search of the reserve we decide it is time to move on. We don’t get far before we pull over at a patch of scrub, due to seeing a large colony of donkey orchids whilst driving past.
Gnowangerup-Jerramungup Rd
Western wheatbelt donkey orchid or Small flowered donkey orchid.
(Diuris brachyscapa or D. porrifolia)
Stark white spider orchid
(Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens)
Wheatbelt spider orchid
(Caladenia x cala)
Cowslip orchid
(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Jug orchid
(Pterostylis recurva)
Short-sepaled spider orchid
(Caladenia brevisura)
Banded greenhood
(Pterostylis vittata)
Purple-veined spider orchid
(Caladenia doutchiae)
??? Hybrid
(Caladenia x sp.)
Western wheatbelt donkey orchid or Small flowered donkey orchid.
(Diuris brachyscapa or D. porrifolia)
Green spider orchid
(Caladenia falcata)
Wowsers! what an awesome random roadside stop that was. Hybrids plus numerous species found. We do though have to move on, so onwards to Ongerup we go.
Ongerup
Cowslip orchids
(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Western wheatbelt donkey orchid
(Diuris brachyscapa)
Green spider orchid
(Caladenia falcata)
Sugar orchid
(Ericksonella saccharata)
Drooping spider orchid
(Caladenia radialis)
Frog greenhood
(Pterostylis sargentii)
Blue china orchid
(Cyanicula gemmata)
Time for lunch so we head for the nearby Yongergnow Australian Malleefowl Centre, where we have enjoyed a nice meal on previous visits. This visit was no exception. With a full belly we move on towards the Fitzgerald River National Park.
Calyerup Rocks
Western tiny blue orchid
(Cyanicula aperta)
Sugar orchids
(Ericksonella saccharata)
Jug orchid
(Pterostylis recurva)
Cowslip orchid
(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Common bee orchid
(Diuris decrementa)
Whoops, we somehow drove into the Park Rangers residence, and were chastised for this. Oh well we know better next time. As we plan to camp at Hamersley Inlet we move further along the South Coast Hwy until we reach West River Road. Due to failing light we stop only at the lookout, before pulling into our overnight campground. After setting up we go for a quick walk and of course look out for any orchids that catch our eye. The inlet is very dry compared to when we last visited a few years back.
Hamersley Inlet
Western wispy spider orchid
(Caladenia microchila)
Sunset over the inlet
After enjoying the beautiful sunset over the inlet we head back to the camper to rustle up some dinner. We then enjoyed a game of Tri-ominos before hitting the sack. Random stops today proved very successful with many orchids found, so we don’t always have to plan everything upfront.
After spending a wonderful weekend with good friends, Warren and Tammy in Hopetoun, we venture north to Ravensthorpe as they are having their annual Wildflower Show, which we have not been to in the 20 years we have lived in Esperance.
The display of wildflowers in the shire hall was amazing so we took a few pics of the orchids they had on display. We then sat down for a cuppa, with scones, jam and cream before making our way to the local lolly shop, Yummylicious Candy Shack for an icecream. No ginger this time though 🙁 so I chose macadamia then also purchased a small bag of mixed lollies. It is here we say goodbye to our friends as they head home to Esperance, as we have orchids to find.
So where do we go first, given we are already 185km east of home. You guessed it, another 15kms east to Kukenarup Memorial. As the picnic shelter is already occupied we head straight for the walk trail and immediately find some Lemon-scented sun orchids (Thelymitra antennifera)in bloom. These are by far the most widespread of the yellow sun orchids, as they occur on a line from Shark Bay to Israelite Bay and everywhere south of that line. The dark column lobes are a distinctive feature which also alludes to the Latin name: antennae, to bear .
Very close by another bright orchid of a different colour catches our eye. The Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis) glistens in the bright sunshine.
Deb discovers a blue orchid and initially thought it would be a Blue beard however on closer inspection it was an orchid not found at this location before, which is exciting. It is a Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata) which is quite widespread, ranging from Israelite Bay to Kalbarri.
I had just finished saying to Deb how it would be nice to find the Dragon orchids that were at the Wildflower Show, when what do we spy but a Common dragon orchid (Caladenia barbarossa) swaying in the breeze.
Right next door to the lone Dragon orchid we also find a lone Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens susp. gracillima) which is smaller than the related Fringed mantis orchid, which can also be found around Ravensthorpe. The labellum calli extend onto the red tip of the labellum, which is another distinguishing feature when comparing the two.
Making our way back to the walk track, as we have detoured a bit towards the Hwy, we come across another type of orchid. This little one appears to be the Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura) due to the shortly clubbed later sepals and south-easterly location. The only other possibility is the Purple-veined spider orchid, which is pictured earlier at the wildflower Show, and the length of the sepals is definitely a distinctive feature of both types.
Towards the end of the walk trail we discover many more Lemon-scented sun orchids growing under the protection of bushes and also out on the granite growing in the Resurrection bushes.
Right at the end of the trail some Frog greenhoods (Pterostlyis sargentii) are found growing in the Resurrection bushes as well. These are a common inland greenhood growing between Northampton and Grasspatch.
We decide to go down south of the picnic shelter to see if we can locate the Red beaks we had found on previous years. Nothing at all found other than a small spent spider orchid on the edge of a track. We decide to walk along this track which heads west, toward the Phillips River. We are expanding this location as we have never ventured along this track before.
Interestingly, the first orchid found is the common Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava sp. flava) which is unusual in that no others have been found today. One flower, 3 images.
Further along the track are some more Dragon and Purple enamel orchids.
Then on the south side of the track we stumble across some scattered Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) growing in the white sand. An unusual find, given the area does not appear to have been burnt recently.
Then hiding under a bush is the smallest Blue china orchid I had ever seen. Actually looking at the labellum it appears to be a Granite china orchid (Cyanicula nikulinskyae) as it is also much paler than the typical Blue china orchid which was found earlier today.
After walking this track for about 30mins it seemed to go on forever, so we turned north to make our way back to the picnic area. Pushing up a rise we find many more Small mantis orchids as well as many Jug orchids (Petrostylis recurva), however most were finished for the season, though we took a photo just as a record.
We have now returned close to the Hwy so head west towards the picnic area. Not much found until Deb excitedly comes across a beautiful leek orchid. I believe it to be the Frilled leek orchid (Prasophyllum sargentii) which grows in sandy soils from Kalbarri to Israelite Bay during August to October.
We make it back to the picnic shelter and right there in the shade of the taller shrubs is a patch of Common dragon orchids. Photos taken but no decent ones so will not post any, however the short video seems decent enough to post.
Needing food we head off east past Ravensthorpe and onto Munglinup Roadhouse to get another burger, as they were awesome last time. Much busier today so the wait will be longer, so Deb suggests I go exploring nearby for any orchids.
Great idea my wonderful wife had. I ventured over the road to the east and immediately spied yellow flowers that looked promising. The bright and beautiful Cowslips are flowering as are the Lemon-scented sun orchids. Also a red coloured Small mantis orchid and the usual greener ones are found together with some Purple enamel orchids.
To top off this location I found three different species of white spider orchids. First up is the Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians), followed by an Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda susp. crassa) then finally a small orchid I cannot Identify. Any help with this is appreciated.
Back to the roadhouse I go and we enjoy eating the awesome burgers before we head off to our next location. We plan to visit the spot on Boydell Road where we had seen possible hammer orchid leaves on a previous visit. I am driving and we go past the spot and travel some 20 kms before realising. We turn around and locate our marker and pull into a farmers gate leeway as we are only in the Ford, so no 4WD capability to park off the road.
Whilst we start our search on the north of the road the farmer comes to check on what we are up to. They check our car, drive up and down the road a bit then obviously decide we are not a threat and leave us be. Unfortunately the leaves we planned to check out had not produced any flowers and were dying off, however we did locate some other orchids. First up was a beautiful pair of Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana) which occur from Augusta to Cape Arid during September and October. The long clubbed sections of the sepals and having clubbed petals are distinguishing features. Other specimens are also found upon further searching.
Other orchids were found as well. Red beaks were found, which confirms rare individuals will flower without a need for a recent bushfire. Purple enamel orchids and Dancing spider orchids (Caladenia discoidea) round off the day. A funky name however, it is derived from the Latin discoideus alluding to the rounded shape of the labellum.
It is now just after 5pm so we had better make tracks for home. As we are closer to the Cascade Road intersection than we first thought we decide to take it back down to the hwy as it is a sealed road.
A great day orchid hunting, to finish off a great weekend. Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show provided us with the nudge to explore the area and we were rewarded with at least 16 different orchid species.
We are collected from our home by Eric and his father, for an orchid adventure out east of Esperance. We will be showing them our Boyatup location ( Mud Map SE 40) and in return we get chauffeured and have the chance to discuss our findings, views, information and thoughts on our beautiful terrestrial orchids. Enjoying the great outdoors by taking nothing but photographs and leaving only footprints.
Our Boyatup location had been affected by bushfire last summer, so this will be our first visit since early August. It will interesting to see which orchids are in flower later in the season after a summer bushfire.
As usual we turn off fisheries Road into the track leading to the rock and jump out once the first orchid is spied. Seen by Deb of course :). Following will be photos taken of the orchids found along this first part of the track.
Purple Enamel Orchid
Elythranthera brunonis
One of the 2 species found in Western Australia.
The Purple enamel orchid was named in 1963.
Can grow to a height of 300mm
Red beaks
Pyrorchis nigricans
One of the 2 species found in Western Australia.
Red beaks were named in 1810 and placed in the Lyperanthus genus before being moved into the Pyrorchis genus in 1994.
Can grow to a height of 300mm
Common bee orchid
Diuris decrementa
One of the 18 species in the Laxiflora complex of the Diuris genus found in Western Australia
Common bee orchid was named in 2013
Can grow to a height of 300mm
Cowslip orchid
Caladenia flava subsp. flava
One of the 4 subspecies of Cowslip orchid (caladenia flava) found in Western Australia
The Cowslip orchid was named in 1810
Can grow to a height of 250mm
Rattle beaks
Lyperanthus serratus
Is the single Western Australian species of the Lyperanthus genus
Rattle beaks were named in 1840
Can grow to a height of 500mm
We have now reached the gravel pit so drive across this to the track leading to the granite outcrop named Boyatup hill. Back in August we found loads of Pink bunny orchids and Blue beards, plus other orchids in smaller numbers. Let’s see what is now in flower. The following photos are of the orchids found in the area which was burnt by last summers bushfire.
Red beaks
Pyrorchis nigricans
Granite china orchid
Cyanicula nikulinskyae
One of the 8 species in the Gemmata complex of the Cyanicula genus found in Western Australia
Granite china orchid was named in 2000
Can grow to a height of 130mm
White mignonette orchid
Microtis alba
One of the 10 species found in Western Australia
White mignonette orchid named in 1810
Can grow to a height of 600mm
Tall leek orchid
Prasophyllum elatum
One of the 16 species in the Elatum complex of the Prasophyllum genus found in Western Australia
Tall leek orchid was named in 1810
Can grow to a height of 1200mm
Pointing spider orchid
Caladenia exstans
One of the 9 species in the Falcata complex of the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Pointing spider orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 450mm
Zebra orchid
Caladenia cairnsiana
One of the 2 species in the Cairnsiana complex of the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Zebra orchid was named in 1869
Can grow to a height of 400mm
Pink candy orchid
Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea
One of 2 subspecies in the Hirta complex of the Caladenia genus in Western Australia
Pink candy orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 250mm
Hypochromic variant
Cowslip orchid
Caladenia flava subsp. flava
Rabbit orchid
Leptoceras menziesii
Is the only member of the genus Leptoceras
Rabbit orchids were named in 1810 and placed in the Caladenia genus before being moved into the monotypic genus Leptoceras in 1840.
Can grow to a height of 300mm
Common bee orchid
Diuris decrementa
Esperance king spider orchid
Caladenia decora
One of the 22 species in the Huegelii complex of the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Esperance king spider orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 500mm
Dusky fairy orchid
Caladenia x erminea
Hybrid between Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava) and White fairy orchid (Caladenia marginata)
Dusky fairy orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 160mm
Beautiful donkey orchid
Diuris pulchella
One of the 26 species in the Corymbosa complex of the Diuris genus found in Western Australia
Beautiful donkey orchid was named in 1991
Can grow to a height of 500mm
Western wispy spider orchid
Caladenia microchila
One of the 43 species in the Filamentosa complex of the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Western wispy spider orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 250mm
Esperance white spider orchid
Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa
One of the 14 subspecies of C. longicauda, which is one of the 14 species in the Longicauda complex of the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Esperance white spider orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 500mm
Heberle’s spider orchid
Caladenia heberleana
One of 22 species of the Huegelii complex in the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Heberle’s spider orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 450mm
White fairy orchid
Caladenia marginata
One of the 4 species in the Latifolia complex of the Calendenia genus found in Western Australia
White fairy orchid was named in 1839
Can grow to a height of 200mm
Custard orchid
Thelymitra villosa
One of the 6 species in the Antennifera complex of the Thelymitra genus found in Western Australia
Custard orchid was named in 1839
Can grow to a height of 600mm
Blue china orchid
Cyanicula gemmata
One of 8 species in the Gemmata complex of the Cyanicula genus found in Western Australia
Blue china orchid was named in 1839
Can grow to a height of 150mm
Condingup china orchid
Cyanicula sp. ‘Esperance’
One of the 8 species in the Gemmata complex of the Cyanicula genus found in Western Australia
Condingup china orchid was first collected in 1996 but is yet to be formally named
Can grow to a height of 150mm
Laughing leek orchid
Prasophyllum macrostachyum
One of 4 species in the Gracile complex of the Prasophyllum genus found in Western Australia
Laughing leek orchid was named in 1810
Can grow to a height of 300mm
Bearded bird orchid
Pterostylis turfosa
One of 13 species in the Barbata complex of the Pterostylis genus found in Western Australia
Bearded bird orchid was named in 1840
Can grow to a height of 200mm
Hybrid spider orchid
Caladenia x
Unnamed hybrid orchid. Possible parents: C. decora: C. longicauda: C. heberleana: C. hirta:
Lunch time and it’s time we move on. Eric wishes to show us a location where he has previously found the Holy Grail of orchids: Queen of Sheba orchid. He did not have to ask us twice. After having a bite to eat we head off at this new location, just off Parmango Road. Immediately we come across a new orchid, that Deb and myself had never seen. The following orchids are the ones found at this new location, which is now firmly added to our must visit sites.
Twisted sun orchid
Thelymitra flexuosa
One of the 6 species in the Antennifera complex of the Thelymitra genus found in Western Australia
Twisted sun orchid was named in 1839
Can grow to a height of 350mm
Purple enamel orchid
Elythanthera brunonis
Common bee orchid
Diuris decrementa
Cowslip orchid
Caladenia flava subsp. ?
Rattle beaks
Lyperanthus serratus
White mignonette orchid
Microtis alba
Custard orchid
Thelymitra villosa
Dancing spider orchid
Caladenia discoidea
A distinct species of the Caladenia genus endemic to Western Australia
Dancing spider orchid was named in 1839
Can grow to a height of 450mm
Lemon-scented sun orchid
Thelymitra antennifera
One of the 6 species in the Antennifera complex of the Thelymitra genus found in Western Australia
Lemon-scented sun orchid was named in 1840
Can grow to a height of 250mm
Jug orchid
Pterostylis recurva
A unique species of the Pterostylis genus endemic to Western Australia
Jug orchid was named in 1873
Can grow a height of 900mm
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What a great new location this was off Parmango Road. Time to move on, so we take Eric and his father to our original location off Coolinup road which is on the other side of Condingup. Here we first visit the gravel pit, then decide to bush bash down to our small granite location. The orchids listed below were found on that bush bash plus around the small granite location.
Esperance king spider orchid
Caladenia decora
Laughing leek orchid
Prasophyllum macrostachyum
Heberle’s spider orchid
Caladenia heberleana
Common bee orchid
Diuris decrementa
Bearded bird orchid
Pterostylis turfosa
Purple enamel orchid
Elythranthera brunonis
It proved a very successful day with Boyatup proving itself once again to be a magnificent location for orchids, with this season especially good after last summers bushfire. Thanks to Eric for sharing his Parmango Road location we finally got to see the Twisted sun orchid in bloom and Eric the custard orchid. Nearly 6 hrs spent searching for orchids in great company.
