Top Orchids Found West of Esperance: A Field Report; Part I

Day Trip, Lake Mortijinup NR, Nature Reserves, Western Australian Orchids

04/09/2024

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.

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.

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 🙂

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.

Orchids Found on the Brookton Highway Adventure

Brookton Highway NR, Lake Hurlstone NR, Nature Reserves, Road Trip, State Forest, Western Australian Orchids

31/08/2024

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. porrifolia and D. 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.

Orchid Exploration in Karnup: 4 Unique Species Discovered

Regional Parks, Rockingham Lakes RP, Western Australian Orchids

30/08/2024

First ever exploration for orchids in the southern metropolitan location of Karnup¹. I was actually amazed to find anything, but I lucked into finding 4 different species.

Firstly, came across some beautiful Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia) growing in the bright green undergrowth of weeds and maybe some native plants, but you can never tell this close to suburbia.
One of the orchids was the largest I have ever come across. It stood over 550mm in height and its leaf was 40mm in width.

The next orchid found was a total surprise as they are predominantly found in the season following a summer bushfire. This does not appear to be the case here.
The Rabbit orchid (Leptoceras menziesii) is found between Northampton and Israelite Bay growing in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils.
It is listed as being a colony forming species growing up to 300mm in height,

Further afield I stumble across the colourful Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) which is the most widespread of the 4 subspecies found in WA.
The species is found growing between Shark Bay and Israelite Bay, with this subspecies found between Northampton and Israelite Bay.
They are a very common orchid; however, I was again not expecting to find any in the metro area.

The final orchid species was found in numerous spots along the side of the walk trail in the swampy area. One good specimen was found at the base of a melaleuca tree.
The Midge orchid (Cyrtostylis huegelii) is found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay growing in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in moist shaded situations.

Well, I left this reserve impressed to have found orchids growing in winter weeds.
4 species in 3 genera found.

Next stop; lunch with my sister Maxine.

A Day at the Kepwari Walk Trail: Orchid Varieties Uncovered

Esperance, Western Australian Orchids, Woody Lake NR

25/08/2024

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.

Orchid diversity in Coomalbidgup and East Munglingup

Western Australian Orchids

21/08/2024

As we ventured north last trip, we decided to head west. We want to see if the species found differ in any way.

Our first stop is within the location of Coomalbidgup³.

The first orchid spied was a double-headed king spider type orchid. Identification is difficult. This is due to the recorded presence of both the Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora) and the Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana) in this vicinity. They are also very similar in appearance.

As the later species is listed as flowering in September it is most likely the former. The dark colouring alludes to this ID as well.

A yellow-coloured orchid is the next found. The Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) is a common orchid found between Northampton and Israelite Bay.

The next orchid was found in large numbers, as it was last year in this same location.
Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia) are found flowering from August to early-December. They range from Kalbarri to Israelite Bay growing in sandy and sandy clay soils.

A single specimen of the Lort River snail orchid (Pterostylis lortensis) is spotted. It was found when walking back to the Triton, growing in the track made by illegal wood cutters.
Theses orchids flower in August and September only, between Boxwood Hill and Israelite Bay.

Then back at the Triton I spied a less colourful king spider orchid. Could this one be a Heberle’s spider orchid?
Please share your thoughts on the ID

Moving on we decide to check out a new location near the Coomalbidgup⁵ townsite.
Driving, then walking, then driving, then walking we finally find some orchids.
Red Beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) is found growing in the mounded verges of the track.
They flower from August to October and occur between Shark and Israelite Bays.

A few Western tiny blue orchids (Cyanicula aperta) were found spread over the site.
These small blue orchids flower August to early-October between Dumbleyung and Mt Ragged.

Deb was driving and looking to the right of the track. I was walking along the left side of the track.
So, as luck would have it, I came across the only specimen found of the Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea).
These orchids flower August to early-October as well. Their range however is larger, Kalbarri to Israelite Bay.

Another snail orchid is also found; however, it is a different species to that found earlier.
I feel we have found the Ravensthorpe snail orchid (Pterostylis grossa). These orchids are found between Millers Point and Esperance during the months of August and September.

Moving south to the west of town we find the common Cowslip orchid. A budding Purple enamel orchid is also found. None found flowering unfortunately.

Towards the end of our track, we come across some large white spider orchids in flower.
From the location I will be calling them the Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa).
These large orchids flower from August to early-October over the range; Bremer Bay to Cape Arid

The final orchid found at this location was an unexpected but exciting find. In a winter wet area with gravelly topsoil, we found a few buds before finding a sole flowering specimen.
The Southern curly locks (Thelymitra uliginosa) is found flowering during August and September. Its range extends form Busselton to Esperance, with rare finds north to Perth.

Leaving the Coomalbidgup townsite location on a high note, we venture further west to our next Coomalbidgup⁶ location. Turning north up Beltana Road, we pull over on the side of the road as we see some large white spider orchids.

The first orchid photographed though is a hybrid, which is exciting. One of the parents would be the Esperance white spider orchid as we find many more of them.

Also found at this location was the Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea).
These orchids range in colour from pale to vivid pink and flower late-June to September.
They occur between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay in more inland locations than the related Candy orchid.

A couple of snail orchids at the end of their season are also found. Looking at their stems I feel they may be the Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa).
These orchids flower July to September between Nerren Nerren Station and Balladonia.

A little further up the road we spy some yellow in the bush. Upon closer inspection we are thrilled to have found some donkey orchids in flower.

From the location I will name some of these orchids the Green Range donkey orchid (Diuris littoralis).
They flower from July to early-September between Denmark and Esperance.
However, others could be the South coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii). These flower from June to early-August between Ongerup and Esperance.
These orchids have white age spots to their petals (due to earlier flowering season) and a broader labellum.
Please provide your thoughts on the ID’s.

We do a U turn and head back to the Hwy. Heading west we pull some 20 metres into a track leading north, which is another Coomalbidgup⁷ location.
Excitedly whilst having a bite to eat for lunch I spy a bird orchid alongside the track.
Upon closer inspection it appears to be the Dwarf bird orchid (Pterostylis galgulus).
These orchids flower in August and September between Northampton and Munglinup. This location is only 20kms east of Munglinup townsite which is an acceptable deviation.

Going further afield orchids are few and far between. Cowslip orchids are found but not in great numbers. Pictures taken for recording purposes.

Another yellow orchid is found in better numbers, though only in a restricted area at the location.
The Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementum) is found singly as well as in small groups. Flowering occurs from August to early-October between Wongan Hills and Israelite Bay.

As I was walking over to Deb’s location to take pics of her many bee orchids, I stumbled across some very small leaves.
Looking at the leaves more closely they appear to belong to an orchid of the Drakaea genus. EDIT: Andrew Brown has commented on my iNaturalist record that they are the non-flowering leaves of Eriochilus scaber. Thoughts

Whilst I’m busy taking pics of the bee orchids Deb finds a white spider orchid. I finally catch her up and grab some pics of what I believe to be the Esperance white spider orchid.
The first orchid found appears to have had its petals and sepals nibbled. However, others found on the west side of the track have the usual long pendulous petals and sepals.

Moved on to our next stop, which ended up being 1km along Neds Corner Road. This did not prove to be very productive with only the one orchid being found.
It was a very poor specimen of the Esperance king spider orchid I believe.

We did not hang around for long and moved on to our East Munglinup⁶ location on Farmers Road. At this spot, again only one orchid was found. This time though it was a Western tiny blue orchid.

Onto another location this time along Jonegatup Road being another new East Munglinup⁷ location.
First up we find a few more Western tiny blue orchids.

A new orchid for the day is discovered on what appears to be the old road.
The Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) occurs between Lancelin and Esperance. Flowering during the months of August to early-November.

Snail orchids are found in various spots over this location. They appear to be more Ravensthorpe snail orchids.
Pics for recording purposes. EDIT: Andrew Brown has responded to my iNaturalist record that he feels they are P. Setulosa

On a pushed-up mound we come across the Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata). These orchids grow between Paynes Find and Israelite Bay during August and September.
Moving back to the old road I nearly step on a snake. Scary stuff. Upon posting the pic taken on iNaturalist I can name it a Bardick (Echiopsis curta).

Spent greenhood orchids found as well, though the numerous small spider orchids are a treat.
Their labellum size and the spreading habit of the petals and lateral sepals suggest they are the Cream spider orchid (Caladenia horistes).
They flower between the Fitzgerald River National Park and Balladonia from August to early-October.

We have quick check of the Young River crossing before moving on to our final stop of the day.

We venture east to Neds Corner Road. We head south. Then, we make a stop on the road verge at a recently burnt area. Recorded as Coomalbidgup⁸ location.
As with the last 2 locations, the first orchid found is the Western tiny blue orchid.

Next a single specimen of the Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila) is found.
These small spider orchids flower between Kondinin and Madura from July to early-October.
The relatively small labellum and stiffly held petals are distinguishing features.

Another solitary orchid is found, this one though is blue in colour.
The Blue beard (Pheladenia deformis) is found between Murchison River and Israelite Bay.
Flowering occurs from late-May to October.

Now the one orchid we were hoping to find in this burnt out area was the Pink bunny orchid (Eriochilus scaber subsp. scaber).
Luck was on our side as we did find some small patches of them in flower.
These orchids are found between Jurien Bay and Cape Arid National Park, with flowering usually after a summer bushfire.
Season is from July to early-September.

Another orchid that favours a summer bushfire is the Red beaks orchid. However, we were only able to find one in bud as they only start flowering in August.

It is nearly 4.30pm so we decide to make tracks for home.
Not too bad a day. We found some 21 species. We also saw leaves and buds for orchids yet to come. Plus, one possible hybrid.

Exploring Orchid Diversity north of Esperance

Helms Arboretum, Nature Reserves, Swan Lagoon NR, Western Australian Orchids

17/08/2024

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.

A solitary Blue beard (Pheladenia deformis) is found first.

These orchids flower from late-May to October.

In WA they occur between Murchison River to Israelite Bay.

As this area has been burnt in the last few years, we were still able to find some Redbeaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) in flower.

Redbeaks flower from August to October.

They are found from Shark Bay to Israelite Bay, which is one of the largest ranges for an orchid in WA.

Throughout the area checked we came across a few patches of the Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava).

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.

Hiding under the verge scrub we find the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva).

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.

Due to the location, they must be the Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima).

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.

One is definitely the Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila).

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.

At least 20 species found!!

Exploring Orchids in Esperance: A Solo Adventure

Esperance, Helms Arboretum, List of Orchids Found, Myrup

09/08/2024

Debbie is working this afternoon. I am now retired, so I decided to explore two locations close to Esperance solo.
Helms Arboretum and Myrup.⁹
Not much to report so I will just list the orchids found.

?? Snail orchid
(Pterostylis sp.)

Found at Helms and is un-named. Have posted numerous pics of orchid flower, full plant and the rosettes to assist identification.

Esperance king spider orchid
(Caladenia decora)

Distribution: Bremer Bay to Cape Arid

Flower: mid-August to October

These orchids vary in their appearance. This can make positive ID difficult as the co-occurring (C. heberleana), also flowers during September and October.
They also hybridise with (C. longicauda subsp. crassa) producing various coloured flowers. This also confuses identification

Banded greenhood
(Pterostylis vittata)

Dark banded greenhood
(Pterostylis sanguinea)

Both flower into September. They both have ranges that extend east to Esperance.

Grass-leafed spider orchid
(Caladenia graminifolia)

Distribution: Mt Manypeaks to Israelite Bay

Flowering: August and September

Specimen found had been nibbled and was hanging upside down. This proved interesting to photograph as it was blowing in the gusty wind.

Cowslip orchid
(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)

Distribution: Northampton to Israelite Bay

Flowering: July to early December

Common helmet orchid
(Corysanthes recurva)

Distribution: Mandurah to Albany, with numerous disjunct populations. Not recorded in Esperance though.

Flowering: June to early-September

Western tiny blue orchid
(Cyanicula aperta)

Distribution: Dumbleyung to Mt Ragged

Flowering: August to early-October

Esperance king spider orchids

Also found these at the Myrup location. No other orchids found though at this location.

Orchid season reset @ Helms Arboretum after Birthday Cruise

Esperance, Helms Arboretum, List of Orchids Found, Western Australian Orchids

07/08/2024

Well, it has been quite a while since we went orchid hunting.
A holiday to celebrate my 60th Birthday was enjoyed from mid-July to yesterday. No orchids included LOL.

So, what better place to see how the season is progressing than to pop out to Helms.
We were not disappointed!!

Esperance king spider orchid
(Caladenia decora)

Flowers: mid-August to October

Distribution: Bremer Bay to Cape Arid

??snail orchid
(Pterostylis sp.)

Un-named snail orchid species found at Helm’s

Cowslip orchid
(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)

Flowers: July to early-December

Distribution: Northampton to Israelite Bay

Grass-leafed spider orchid
(Caladenia graminifolia)

Flowers: August to September

Distribution: Mt Manypeaks Bay to Israelite Bay

Common helmet orchid
(Corysanthes recurva)

Flowers: June to early-September

Distribution: Mandurah to Albany with many disjunct populations, although Esperance is not listed as one of these

Western tiny blue orchid
(Cyanicula aperta)

Flowers: August to early-October

Distribution: Dumbleyung to Mt Ragged

Banded greenhood
(Pterostylis vittata)

Flowers: late-April to early-September

Distribution: Perth to Israelite Bay

Jug orchid
(Pterostylis recurva)

Flowers: August to October

Distribution: Geraldton to Israelite Bay

Zebra orchid
(Caladenia cairnsiana)

Flowers: August to early-November

Distribution: Lancelin to Esperance

Esperance white spider orchid
(Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa)

Flowers: August to early-October

Distribution: Bremer Bay to Israelite Bay

10 species found with a possible hybrid between Esperance king and white spider orchids (pics below)

15/09/2023 ….. Final day of 2023 Road Trip :(

Beaumont NR, Clyde Hill NR, Condingup Water Reserve, Nature Reserves, Numerous days, Other Reserves, Road Trip

After a restful night at the Deralinya Homestead campground, we enjoy a peaceful breakfast. We then quickly pack up camp and head off on the track to Mount Coobaninya. But, after less than 2kms we turn back due to many trees fallen on the track. It seems the strong winds we encountered on the Nullarbor hit here with impact.

Back at the Homestead we pull up at the granite rock that forms the catchment for the dam and go for an orchid exploration. Sun orchids are found with some actually open so we can record their finding. They appear to be the Granite sun orchid (Thelymitra petrophila) which is found flowering from August to November. They occur from Mullewa out to Israelite Bay which is southeast of here.

So many Sun orchids found both flowering and still in bud. The other orchid found was the Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) which are found between Shark Bay and the Great Australian Bight. These ones are not as far gone as the ones found yesterday.

We have a quick look at the homestead as the occupants had left for the morning. It was very interesting to see.
The Heritage Council of WA has this recorded on it’s website : The well constructed buildings of local materials were built by a well known character of the area. George Burns Scott was a pioneer with a dam sinking plant who liked building and establishing stations and then moving on. The painter, A E Baesjou. lived there for some years as a little girl. The property was used as an outstation to Balladonia until 1936 when the roofs were removed. The last load of wool was taken out in 1920. Cattle were run there until 1936.

Moving further south we next stop at Breeboorinia Rock. The occupants from Deralinya Homestead cleared the track into here of fallen trees this same morning. This was opportune for us.
Upon exploring the rock, we first come across the Granite sun orchid. Only 2 good specimens found with pics taken for recording purposes.

The Desert mignonette orchid (Microtis eremicola) was also found growing on the granite. As these orchids flower during September and October only a couple of newly flowering orchids were located. As the common name suggests, these orchids are found in a drier part of the state. Their recorded range is between Hyden and Balladonia.

Then in a bushy patch Deb comes across what appears to be very pale Cowslips. Upon closer inspection, I believe them to be the hybrid known as Dusky fairy orchid (Caladenia x erminea). This is due to the yellow/white colouring. It is also because of the hairs on the underside of the sepals. They are listed as occurring between Esperance and Perth during September through November.

One of the parents to the hybrid was also found in the thick scrub of the granite depression. The Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) was growing in an isolated group. They were very bright yellow in colour, in comparison to the hybrids.

We quickly check out the dam at the base of the rock. It is covered in wattle pollen, giving it a yellow tinge.

We make our way back to the Triton. On our way out we noticed the colour yellow in the surrounding grasses. Upon closer inspection, it is the Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera). This orchid is found flowering from Shark Bay to Israelite Bay during the months July through October.

We now head off and come to the beginning of the farms. In the middle of the farms is Clyde Hill Nature Reserve. Here we pull up and go for an exploration as this is our first visit to this reserve. Well, this proves to be a great location for orchids at this time of the season. Whilst walking along the track into the granite hill, we first come across a solitary Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica). A cobweb holds it prisoner.

Then another new orchid for the day is found. Pics of the various ones found in this location will be shown together to reduce the size of this post. The Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura) flowers in August and September from Jerramungup to Israelite Bay.

Next up we find both the Lemon-scented sun orchid and Granite Sun orchid flowering. These 2 orchids are recorded as being the parents to an Un-named hybrid orchid ( Thelymitra antennifera x petrophila). Amazingly we find one of these in flower as well. I will post pics of all 3 orchids.

Another new orchid for the day is found. The Granite mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. effusa) flowers from August to early October between Peak Charles and Balladonia. The distinctive feature is the slightly upcurved lateral sepals. The related and possibly co-occurring Small mantis orchid has prominently upcurved lateral sepals.

Of course, we also come across the ever-faithful Cowslip orchid. These are found in most locations where orchids flower between Northampton and Israelite Bay. They can be found as early as July right through to December.

Next up is another new orchid for the day. The Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia) are found from August to December between Kalbarri to Israelite Bay. The bright pink colour stood out from the surrounding greens and browns.

Well, we must keep moving so back to the Triton we go and southwards along Parmango road we head. Along the roadside we come to a spot that appears to have had a summer burn go through. We stop for an exploration.
Glad we did as we did as we soon come across the Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis). Actually, we end up finding loads in this spot which was amazing. These unique orchids flower from August to November, between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay.

As we had expected we came across Red Beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) flowering. These orchids usually only flower after a summer fire the season before. But it is possible to find the odd one flowering without a fire.

Also discovered the large Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora) which flowers from mid-August to October between Bremer Bay and Cape Arid.

Another similar coloured orchid is also found. The Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea) flowers August to early-October between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay.

An inconspicuous orchid is found in the early stages of development. The Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media) is found flowering from September to January between Shark Bay and Eyre.

A surprising find was a solitary Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians) in flower. These orchids are found flowering from July to mid-October between Kalbarri and Esperance.

But the best find so far is the Custard orchid (Thelymitra villosa). This was not an expected find at all, so we were shocked in a good way. These orchids are found between Northampton and Esperance flowering over spring.

Two other orchids already found today were also found at this location. Cowslip orchid and Lemon-scented sun orchid just added to the yellow of the Custard orchid. Time to move on to the next location.

We arrive at Beaumont Nature Reserve, park up and head off exploring. Orchids that were recorded earlier today are also found at this location. They are captured in pictures below as a record of where they are found.

Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)

New orchids for the day were also found at this location. First up is the Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) which flowers from August to early-November between Lancelin and Esperance.

Another yellow orchid is found. This time it is the Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementum). It flowers from August to early-October between Wongan Hills and Israelite Bay.

Another pink orchid is found. No not another fairy but a Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea). These orchids flower from late-June to September between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay.

Also found some very pale Pink fairies so just had to share some pics of them. Do not believe they are a hybrid or lutea/hypochromic.

The we come across some donkey orchids. Two different species it seems. Firstly, the distinctive Beautiful donkey orchid (Diuris pulchella) is found. Then a South coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii) is found. The difference in colouring is the major deciding feature.

Next, we come across some of the larger white spider orchids. Based on the location only, I will name one the Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa). As the name suggests they occur both west and east of Esperance. However, the other has a very different labellum with shorter fringe segments. I feel this one is the Reclining spider orchid (Caladenia cruscula). It occurs between Salmon Gums and Mt Ragged.

Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa)

We are amazed to stumble across a large number of hybrids. The parents must be the Pink fairies and Cowslips which we have found at this location. The orchid is therefore the named hybrid Spectacular spider orchid (Caladenia x spectabilis). They do vary in colour quite a bit though. Although the hybrid between Cowslips and the Little pink fairy is very similar. One of the pics below seems quite different to the others. A firm ID may be harder to pin down.

As it’s around 4pm, we decide to move on to our final location. We wish to check if the Bird orchids have flowered yet in the Condingup area.
We are excited to find them in flower. The Bearded bird orchid (Pterostylis turfosa) is a southern species found from Bunbury to Israelite Bay, flowering in spring.

Time to head home to Esperance. It has been an amazing last day of our 2023 road trip. So many orchids found, which makes up for the days in the desert.
So, our adventure ends.
Life is wonderful when spent doing what you love.

WA Orchid Adventures

Come with me on my Orchid Adventures in Southern Western Austalia

Cowslip