Frog

A time when the Pterostylis ruled the Woodlands

Day Trip, Helms Arboretum, Nature Reserves, Red Lake Townsite NR, Truslove North NR, Truslove Townsite NR

13/07/2019

Finally after what seems like ages, we head off on a drive to search for some orchids. First stop is the wonderful Helms Arboretum, (Mud Map SE35 ) at the snail orchid plot. Well in previous years it was the snail orchid plot, however we may be a little early this year.

Eventually we come across some rosettes and then a few are in flower. Appears to be the species found 30/07 last year which could not be named. Western Australian Native Orchids Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/517329235050125/ identified these as an unnamed snail orchid from the South East.

2 stem leaves
Rosette

Also found the leaves oF the spider orchids from previous years , so will be coming back later in the season to check on them. Moving along the track we find some Banded greenhoods (Pterostylis vittata) and Dark banded greenhoods (Pterostylis sanguinea) growing on the verge. The lateral sepals are fleshier in the Dark banded greenhood, as the below pictures illustrate. 

Distinctive green/white stripes
Flowers have a nodding stance

More of the same found so we decide to proceed to our next planned stop – Fleming Grove Road. Here we find lots of Hare orchids (Leporella fimbriata) in the final stages of flowering.

Dual flowers are common
Playing hide n seek
Finding protection in the bushes

Pushing through the scrub we stubble across more Banded greenhoods growing under bushes for protection from being eaten by  the kangaroos.

Can have up to 25 flowers per plant
Insect like labellum flicks up when triggered by pollinator.

Then nearby  we are lucky enough to find a solitary donkey orchid barely in flower. Based on location this must be a Green Range donkey orchid (Diuris littoralis) which flowers July to early September over a near coastal range from  Denmark to Esperance. Then another more open flower is found closer to the greenhoods.

so far only 1 petal has appeared
Dorsal sepal yet to open up fully

Moving on again this time to Truslove Townsite Nature Reserve which unfortunately turns up orchidless. However Truslove North Nature Reserve turns up some Dark banded greenhoods.

White bands clearly visible on this specimen
Very dark brown colouring

Next stop is Red Lake Townsite Nature Reserve where we take a break for lunch. Deb finishes her lunch first and heads off up the track by foot on her search. I have a quick look around , finding more Dark banded greenhoods, and then jump in the Triton to move up to Deb as she has found something new. Dwarf shell orchids (Pterostylis brevichila) are her find, which flower July to September in a range from Hyden to Mt Ragged. Great pickup Deb!!

Fleshy lateral sepals
Less pronounced hood than other shell orchids
Stem leaves but no rosette
Appears to be yawning
Erect narrow ended lateral sepals

 Next up Deb finds a Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica) so close to flowering. These little guys are found July to October from Wongan Hills to the SA border.  Also within coo wee are some yet to fully open Frog greenhoods (Pterostylis sargentii) which flower July to October in an inland range from Northampton to Grass Patch. Better specimens are found down another track.

This little guy stood 25mm high
Lateral sepals yet to open downwards

Then some more greenhoods are found, so last minute photos taken before moving on.

White bands are clear in these flowers
Slightly cupped lateral sepals

Our final destination for today is Eldred Rd near Salmon Gums, where we check out the woodlands surrounding a clay pan lake. (see Feature Image). Only orchids found were more greenhoods, but some appear to be the newly named Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula) which flowers June to September in an inland range from Northampton to Eyre. All orchids  were restricted to the bases of the larger trees.

Mallee banded greenhoods
Short stature and few flowered inflorescence.

So today was a day that the Pterostylis orchids ruled. At least 7 species found.  

?? Snail

Dwarf Shell

Banded Greenhoods x 3

Midget Greenhood

Frog Greenhood

The Diuris and Leporella are bonus orchids in a woodland of Pterostylis.

2018 Road Trip – Holland Track and Beyond – Day 14

Numerous days, Road Trip

06/09/2018

Waking up to a beautiful morning, we stoke up the fire so we can have our usual cooked breakfast. This time though we take it slow as we have all day to explore.

On our previous visit in mid- July so many Cyrtostylis leaves and Pterostylis rosettes were found, however nothing was yet in bloom. So we venture up the same gully, with Richard in tow this time, to see if we will be lucky to find loads in flower. Before we had reached the gully however a little orchid catches our eye.

Seems we have found ourselves another Sigmoid spider orchid (Caladenia sigmoidea) which is an unexpected bonus.

Sigmoid spider orchid
Sigmoid spider orchid
Sigmoid spider orchid
Sigmoid spider orchid

Next up as we cross the gully we find the reliable Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis sp. ‘inland’)

Hairy-stemmed snail orchid
Hairy-stemmed snail orchid
Hairy=stemmed snail orchid

Then nearby another Sigmoid spider orchid is found. After searching up the steep gully slope only one spent Mosquito orchid (Cyrtostylis robusta) is found. A bit disappointing as there are so many leaves. The rosettes appear to be snail orchid ones, as that is all we find as well.

Sigmoid spider orchid
Mosquito orchid
Mosquito orchid
Hairy-stemmed snail orchids

Then back on levelish ground near the gully a lone Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila) is found. On further investigation 2 other specimens are located nearby.

Western wispy spider orchid
Western wispy spider orchid
Western wispy spider orchid
Western wispy spider orchid
Western wispy spider orchid

We then find ourselves back on the actual walk trail that leads from the campsite up to Peak Charles summit. Crossing the gully at the base of the rock we skirt eastwards crossing back over this gully and onto another granite plateau. During this scramble we find our first donkey orchids. Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae) is found spread over the granite.

Yellow granite donkey orchid
Yellow granite donkey orchid
Yellow granite donkey orchid

It was a long time before we came across another orchid. Actually it was more than 30mins when a green spider orchid is found. From the location it must be the Granite mantis orchid (Caladenia attigens subsp. ‘granite’) which flowers August to early October on granite outcrops from Peak Charles to Balladonia. Another distinguishing feature that sets it apart from the other mantis orchids is the lateral sepals are horizontal rather than being upswept.

Granite mantis orchid
Granite mantis orchid
Granite mantis orchid
Granite mantis orchid

Then it’s another 30mins before a Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii) pops into view. This one has 3 flowers and whilst getting low to take a photo 2 other plants appear. One with a single flower and the other with 2.

Frog greenhood
Frog greenhood
Frog greenhood

Not to far away we come across some more spider orchids. A nice group of 3 Western wispy spider orchids then a lone, what seems to be, Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia) which flowers July to late September in an inland range from Paynes Find to Norseman. It’s habitat includes seasonally moist areas on granite outcrops.

Western wispy spider orchids
Western wispy spider orchid

Chameleon spider orchid
Chameleon spider orchid

Then a spider with the longest petals and lateral sepals I have ever seen is found. Appears to be another Western wispy spider orchid, the eastern form of which can have long, often pendulous petals and lateral sepals.

Very long petals and sepals

Western wispy spider orchid

Deb then finds something other than an orchid. In fact it is a Roe’s Jewel Beetle (Stigmodera roei) and Mardi Gras Cockroach (Polyzosteria mitchelli) both brightly coloured in a single Pincushion or Resurrection Bush (Borya nitida Labill).

Roe’s Jewell Beetle
Mardi Gras Cockroach

Close by these colourful little friends a small patch of yellow catches our eye. We find our first and only Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) which flowers July to early December in a large range from Geraldton to Israelite Bay. Seems to be the day for solo orchids, as the very next one found is a lone Shy Greenhood (Pterostylis allantoidea) which flowers August and September in a triangular range from Ravensthorpe to Coolgardie to Israelite Bay.

Cowslip orchid
Shy greenhood

Last orchid found before we head back for lunch is a newly emerging Rufous greenhood sp. name unknown.

4 possibilities at Peak charles

Rufous greenhood sp.

Richard wishes to climb the peak,  Debbie wishes to stay at camp to relax and bake some bread in the camp oven and I’m easy either way. However as we are heading off tomorrow, I accompany Richard as far as Mushroom Rock. While he goes climbing I look around for more orchids. I am rewarded with more Western wispy spider orchids, Yellow granite donkey orchids, Shy greenhoods , Hairy-stemmed snail orchids and Sigmoid spider orchids.

Western wispy spider orchid
Western wispy spider orchids
Hairy-stemmed snail orchid
Shy greenhood
Western wispy spider oprchids
Sigmoid spider orchid
Shy greenhood
Yellow granite donkey orchid
Sigmoid spider orchids
Western wispy spider orchid
Western wispy spider orchid

Well Peak Charles did not disappoint. A total of 11 orchid species located with 10 named. The Rufous greenhood sp. could be any 1 of 4 that are located in this area.

So it was a happy orchid hunter and crew, who after eating a hearty campfire cooked meal, crawl into bed for a well earned sleep. 

2018 Road Trip – Holland Track and Beyond – Day 5

Numerous days, Road Trip

28/08/2018

Another beautiful morning, so what better way to start than to go orchid hunting. We all make tracks for Emu Rock as it was too dark yesterday to check it thoroughly. First find for me was a rare double-headed Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) whilst Deb was checking out the small Hairy-stemmed snail orchids (Pterostylis setulosa) I had found yesterday. 

Siamese twins
Rare double headed flower
Size comparison

Close by I found another Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia) whilst Deb found a Blue beard (Pheladenia defromis).  

Red striped labellum with red-tipped calli
Surreal photo

Whilst taking Deb and Richard back to the Chameleon spider orchids I found yesterday other orchids were found. Mallee Banded Greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula), Hairy-stemmed snail orchids and Sugar orchids.

Newly named species
Great family shot
Very long lateral seapls

Further shots taken of the Chameleon spiders then on the way back to the Tritons, I found another double header Sugar orchid. 

Great colours
Striped labellum
Another rare double header

Time to continue our trek along the Holland Track. We make our way north back to the Hyden – Norseman Road where we start the official Holland Track to Coolgardie. What lies ahead is unknown !!!!!

The start of the track

Hyden – Norseman Road – Our Starting point of the Track proper

 Following the trip notes our first stop will be Sheoak Rock just off the track at the 12.53km mark. However, after around 10kms we pull over as Deb has spied a Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii). Whilst I was taking photos, she also finds a Sugar orchid nearby.  

Thin pointed stem leaves. Up to 10 in number
Pinched dorsal sepal

We move on to Sheoak rock which is a few hundred metres North of the track proper. It was wet and muddy however we park up and go for a wander. On the high point of the rock was a Trig Station (Triangulation/Trigonometrical) made of metal which is nice piece of history. Whilst getting some photos it started to rain so we made our way back to the Tritons for shelter. Making our way out of Sheoak Rock I cross through a patch of bush and come across some Sugar orchids. 

Standing proud
Growing near a burnt out log. Around 7 or 8 in flower closeby
View from Trig Station

Back on the track we pass a Telecom Tower (reception still) at the 15.25km point and reach Native Rocks at the 15.69km point where we park up for lunch. Whilst Deb and Richard put the kettle on and rustle up some grub I go for a scout. First off is another Sugar orchid but then I stumble across a very tall Frog greenhood growing out in the open on granite.

Standing a good 200mm in height
Growing in a very exposed area on granite
So far the most plentiful orchid on the Holland Track

After a quick bite to eat I check the other side of the track where I find spider orchids yet to open.. Oh bugger we may be too early !!!! 

Oh no !!! Are we too early ?
Lunch stop.

However, luck is on my side, and I find some flowering… Now the hard part getting a good photo then working out which species. From the looks they are possible Pendant spider orchids (Caladenia pendens subsp, pendens) due the size of the labellum and length of petals and sepals.

Full flower shot
The sepals and petals have long, brown, drooping, thread-like tips.
Broad labellum
Red striped labellum

Leaving Native Rocks we follow the trip notes for another 6.33km to our next stop of Wattle Rocks. We did get more puddles to cross on the way.

Another muddy puddle to cross

Here we go again and again and again…….. So many bog holes

Parking up at Wattle Rocks Deb immediately spots some orchids. Some very small Dwarf zebra orchids (Caladenia pachychila) are on the edge of the track, in danger of getting run over or trampled. These little beauties flower July to September in a large inland range from Nerren Nerren Station and Mt Ragged. 

Full plant shot
Prominent glandular apex to labellum

Then a few metres away there was the biggest clumping of Ant orchid (Caladenia roei) I have ever seen.  They were an amazing sight.

Ground level shot
Nice clump of ants

Smooth labellum
Not colony forming but can form clumps

Further afield we find what appears to be a Hybrid. Possible parents are Caladenia roei , Caladenia pachychila, Caladenia dimidia or Caladenia vulgata. An attractive small spider orchid.

Parents unknown
Labellum does not match any descriptions in my references

Another new orchid found; this time it appears to be a Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) which must be getting very close to its eastern extremity. 

Drooping petals and lateral sepals with often drooping dorsal sepal.
Cream, prominently red-striped, shortly-fringed or smooth-margined labellum

two bands of red or cream calli
Great full plant shot

Other orchids found included Blue beard, Sugar orchid, Dwarf zebra orchid and the Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila) which is found between Kondinin and Madura during the months of July to early October. 

Slenderish petals and seapls
Full plant shot
Growing in moss
Three mates
Standing tall
Deep purple calli
Small labellum
Eastern from has long pendulous petals and lateral sepals
Side view

What a great spot little spot this is, but we must move on. Next stop is 1.86km further along, at a Mallee fowl nest which appears to be in current use.  

Mallee fowl nest

Large nesting mound

We had planned on getting to Mount Holland to camp but at our current travelling speed it will be dark before we get there, so we decide to look for a suitable camping spot along the way. We find a place just past a big slippery mud hole and set up camp. We light the obligatory campfire and cook some dinner. 

Camp ground before the storm

Getting ready to cook dinner

Luckily we chose to camp earlier as a massive thunderstorm hits and we rename our camping ground “The mud camp”, as the track is now a much muddier, wetter and more slippery than it was. Tomorrow will be interesting going.

Hard mud but slippery
Same track the next morning after our overnight thunderstorm . No longer hard dry mud, now sticky, slippery wet mud

Was a successful orchid hunting day (12 species), but not so successful in travelling the distance we had planned. Achieved less than 30kms today as the Holland Track is proving more challenging than anticipated.

15hr Sunday Drive

Detours, Road Trip

12/08/2018

Saying our goodbyes to Kirstie and Hamish we set off for a leisurely trip home to Esperance. Usually a 7 to 8 hr drive over 725km, we however take 15hrs, as we make numerous stops to hunt for orchids.  Our first destination is Mount Dale in the Helena National Park. The wind is very chilly, however we brave this on our search for some orchid colour. We are not disappointed. First colour spotted is “yellow”. A Donkey orchid is found, but which one?? I’m making the call for the Winter donkey orchid (Diuris brumalis) which flower late June to August in a range from Jurien Bay to Collie. They prefer lateritic or granitic soils and up here in the hills that is the soil types encountered. Other specimens were found throughout our search of this area. 

Yet to fully open
Up to 15 flowers
Broad, elongated petals
Hanging lateral sepals
Tri-lobed labellum
Short, erect, very broad dorsal sepal

Close to our first donkey the next colour found is “pink”. Little pink fairy orchid  (Caladenia reptans subsp. reptans) is found growing in the shelter of a granite boulder. These little beauties flower July to early October in a range from Northampton to Esperance. Singles, pairs and groupings are found in our extended search.  

Little pink fairy orchid

Often clumping habit

Deb then finds the colour “green”. A small patch of snail orchids hidden in a bush so only one visible for a  photo. Could not see the rosette however based on location, pointed hood with brownish tones and medium sized lateral sepals, I  will be naming it as Slender snail orchid (Pterostylis sp. ‘crinkled leaf”). These flower late June to September in a large range from Perth down to Albany. Another patch yet to fully flower was found and the rosettes appear to confirm my classification. 

Often pointed hood
Pushing up through thick scrubbery
Crinkled leaf rossette

Another species of “mixed” colour is found by Deb. Once again hidden or protected near a granite boulder. It appears to be an Autumn leek orchid (Prasophyllum parvifolium) which has been fertilised.

Pinkish tones belies the species
Possible pollinator on one of the flowers

Next is a similarly “mixed” coloured orchid, which I found after pushing into the scrub for a few metres. Firstly I found a large patch of leaves and then with a slower look some orchids flowering were discovered. The genus of Cyrtostylis is known, but which species is it? By the smaller , duller flowers they must be the Midge orchid (Cyrtostylis huegelli) which is found from Kalbarri to east of Esperance during July and September. 

Many leaves, only a few flowering so far
Forward facing labellum, sepals and petals.
Dull red, green, fawn flowers
Narrower labellum than the related Mosquito orchid

Well Mount Dale proved a good hunting ground with 5 species flowering, plus Jug and Bird orchids yet to flower found. Already 2.5 hrs (65kms) into our drive home, so we better move on, or we will break our 12 hr record for the drive home. Next stop planned is Williams Road (Mud Map SE6) however we detour into Westdale Road (Mud Map SE5) to see if we can find some of the species listed in the guide. First off we find the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) which flowers August to October in a range from Geraldton and Israelite Bay.

One flower in 3 stages of bloom
Triple header

Deb is off exploring further whilst I slowly finish taking phone and camera pics of the Jug orchid. Only 2 mtrs away I find the Blood spider orchid (Caladenia filifera) and call Deb back to see. On the way back she also finds other specimens less than a metre off her original walk track. They are so hard to see until you find them , then they stick out more easily as we continue searching.

Clumping habit
Side profile

Uniformly blood red flowers
Blood red in colour
Glistening in the sun
Long pendulous petals and lateral sepals

Disbursed around the area are Common donkey orchids (Diuris corymbosa) which flower August to October in a range from Gingin to Bunbury and inland to near Brookton, our actual location funnily enough.

Up to eight flowers per plant
Often crossed lateral sepals
Broad erect dorsal sepal

Another new find for the season is the Blue beard (Phelandenia deformis) which flower late May to October in a range from Murchison River to Israelite Bay. Only 3 small flowers found but still it is a new one for this season. 

Blue-bearded labellum
Short spreading petals and sepals
Twins

It is now 4 hrs since we left and we have only covered 90kms of the distance home. Better get a move on. 20kms later we arrive at Williams Road (Mud Map SE6) where we had planned to explore for at least an hour as Deb had quickly checked this out on Tuesday when she drove to Perth, when she found at least 4 species flowering. First up we locate some more Common donkey orchids before Deb calls me over to a patch of at least 3 species in close proximity.

Broad elongated petals
Short, labellum mid lobe

First up are Banded greenhoods (Pterostylis vittata) and Hairy-stemmed snail orchids (Pterostylis sp. ‘inland’).

Up to 14 stem leaves and 25 flowers per plant
Standing guard

 Then as previously found in this location, there are Shell orchids everywhere. Many are finished as they flower from May to August. Mud Map records both Red and Brown veined shell orchids here in July so we have missed the peak flowering period it seems. From the flowering plants I believe them to be Red-veined shell orchids (Pterostylis hamiltonii) as they are darker coloured and most have the labellum protruding from the hood formed by the dorsal sepal and petals. These flower in a range from Toodyay to the Stirling Range in woodlands and Rock Sheoak thickets. 

Pointed hood
Prominently protruding, long, narrow, curved labellum

Deep “V” formed by lateral sepals
Up to 6 stem leaves
Reddish-brown and white flwers

Also located close-by are some Little pink fairy orchids. So 4 species all within a 3 square metres area. Great find Deb. 

Leaf tinged purple on the underside
Squat petals and lateral sepals
Labellum – Gives the common name away
Clumping habit
Shell neighbours

Other species found during our search were Dark banded greenhood (Pterostylis sanguinea) and Jug orchid. Also found was a meeting of Banded greenhood and Shells plus a Banded greenhood with a huge inflorescence. 

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Large inflorescence

It’s now after 1.15pm and we have only travelled 110km of the 725km trip. Back to the Triton and a huge patch of spent shells is found plus the very first Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) for the season. These flower from north of Geraldton to Israelite Bay during July to December. 

Carpets of shell orchids
Such bright yellow

Onwards to Brookton where we grabbed a Parmi Wrap for lunch. (Parma for Farmer – raising funds for drought relief in NSW/QLD). Eating whilst driving to catch up some time our next planned stop is the Corrigin Wildflower Trail which goes around the airport  and is part of the Corrigin Nature Reserve. Taking the road in from the Dog Cemetery our first find are some more Little pink fairies  

Little pink fairy

Nothing else found so onwards we go at a slow pace, then I jump out to walk and find some Frog greenhoods (Pterostylis sargentii) which flower between July and October in a range from Northampton to Grasspatch.  They are very small and growing underneath bushes, making photo taking a lay down on the job task. Further Frog greenhoods are found along the trail.

Cupped lateral sepals
Green to dark-brown, white banded flowers
Bright green colouring in the sunshine
Up to 6 flowers per plant
Glistening in the sunshine
Up to 10 stem leaves
Fleshy, tri-lobed, frog-like labellum

Further along the track whilst walking I spy some nice snail orchids. They are the Robust snail orchid (Pterostylis dilatata). Another grouping was found further along by Deb whilst driving slowly along. 

Standing up to 150mm in height
Erect, clubbed lateral sepals
3 to 5 stem leaves
Nice group shot

A sole Jug orchid was also found just yawning like a Pelican  and further along what appears to be Pterostylis arbuscular which is a Mallee form of banded greenhood. No common name yet.

Slowly opening – Pelican yawning!!
Not yet opened

Finally a donkey orchid was found. Based on location alone this must be the Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa) which flowers July to September between York, Tenterden and Ravensthorpe. Corrigin is slightly east of the line York to Ravensthorpe. 

Pale yellow, brown marked flowers
Tri-lobed labellum
Up to four flowers per palnt
Short, broad dorsal sepal
Narrow, hanging, often reflexed, crossed lateral sepals

Nearly 4pm, or 8hrs into our trip home and we have only completed 220km of the 725km required. Best move on to our next planned stop, Macrocarpa Trail near Kulin. Just before 5pm Deb finds our first orchid of this trail. Appears to be Hairy-stemmed snail orchids. 

Sentry
Time for a chat
Smaller specimen
Standing up to 150mm in height
Extremely variable species
up to 3 stem leaves
Side n rear views
Lateral sepals up to 35mm in length

Also found further Frog greenhoods, Robust snail orchids, Dark banded greenhoods and another possible Pterostlyis arbuscular.

Nice double header

Fleshy appearance
Variable coloured greenhood ..Possible common name

Then as the light is fading fast we venture into the bush and finally there they are.. Spider orchids in flower. We now rush to get as many photos as possible .. They are so small and with the fading light our photos are not the best but we need to record the find. From the location and size I believe we found the Common spider orchid (Caladenia vulgata) and the Pendant spider orchid (Caladenia pendens subsp. pendens) which both flower during August. The former July to October and the latter August to early October. The Common spider orchid ranges from Kalbarri to Esperance whilst the Pendant spider orchid ranges from Wongan Hills and Walpole. The Length of the petals and lateral sepals are a distinguishing feature. 

Found in a variety of habitats
Possible pollinators
Creamy-white flower
Tangle of petals and sepals
Size comparison

Latin, vulgaris means common, ordinary
Slightly less pendulous that the Common spider orchid
Standing 150 to 300mm high
creamy-white red striped labellum

Relatively broad red-striped labellum
Long pendulous petals and lateral sepals
Size comparison

The sun finally sets on our orchid hunting so we make tracks via Lake Grace for Steak Burger / Fish n chips dinner. Then after 15hrs we arrive home at 11pm. Long day however very happy at finding 20 species of orchid.

Peak Charles National Park

Road Trip, Weekend away

 

 

13/07/2018

Packed up the camper and headed off up the Coolgardie-Norseman Hwy for a long overdue weekend camping trip. We chose Peak Charles National Park as we had not visited since 2015.  This years dry winter allows us to visit, as the roads are usually impassable if wet. Consequently we had never visited this early in the season before, so who knows what orchids may be in flower. Although this dry start will also impact the orchids themselves, so it is a two edged sword. Our first stop on the Hwy is Scaddan, where we find Diuris plants with leaves but no flowers as yet. So off we head further north, with next stop being Salmon Gums. 

We checked out our usual spot and was lucky enough to find some Midget greenhoods (Pterostylis mutica) which are found from Wongan Hills to the SA border flowering July to October. Fewer flowers than last years visit (15/07/2017) however still happy to find some.  Only other finds were spent Pygmy orchids (Corunastylis tepperi). 

This little one was only 40mm tall
Only 80mm tall – Can grow up to 200mm

We pulled into the travel stop in Salmon Gums and had our lunch, before heading off for Peak Charles. On the drive in just before the Lake King – Norseman Road intersection we checked out a granite rock location and found a lone Dark banded greenhood (Pterostylis sanguinea) with an unusual light orangey-brown colouring. Nothing else found.

Dark banded greenhood

Unusual colouring

Upon arrival at the Peak Charles National Park camping ground we were amazed to find it empty, so we enjoyed setting up camp before heading out on a late afternoon check of the surroundings. We went to the place we had found orchids previously and after a lot of searching we finally found some in flower. Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis sp. ‘inland’) is a common inland orchid found from Kalbarri to Balladonia, flowering late June to September. Also know as Pterostylis setulosa and found in SA and NSW. An extremely variable species. We explored onto the granite but due to fading light no more sightings made. 

This one was over 100mm tall
This little one was only 30mm high

Back to camp for dinner, which happened to be lamb chops cooked on the little BBQ, which was a Christmas gift from Jace, Amber and Oliver. 

Damage from the blaze. Paint burnt
Heat beads still glowing hot

14/07/2018

We awoke to a beautiful sunny winters day and enjoyed a bacon and egg breakfast before heading off to explore further. Deb wanted to check out the snail orchids again to get some photos with the Olympus M5, so we headed back to the spot we found them yesterday afternoon.

Front view
Crossed lateral sepals

We then ventured onto the granite rocks and climbed up looking for anything else that may be flowering. The old faithful Resurrection plant was flowering and more snail orchids were found, however they were very few and far between with so many rosettes having only very small buds. Late season it seems. 

Borya consticta – Pincushion
Growling

What?, another Pterostylis but not a snail this time. I found a lone double headed Dark Banded greenhood.

Small insect-like labellum
Only just 50mm high

Looking back towards Peak Charles itself, we decided to venture up a wooded slope which incorporated a run-off creek bed. It started out quite open and there were yellow daisies flowering however once the Sheaok trees started the daisies stopped. Deb then stumbles across a nice, small hood of snails which was exciting as the previous ones found were all very spaced apart. Hairy-stemmed snail orchids

We then pushed into the creek-bed which is strewn with boulders, logs and other debris and Deb yells in excitement. She has never seen so many Cyrtostylis leaves, however only a few were in bud and not yet fully blooming. Oh well we did say earlier, the season appears late at this location.

None in flower 🙁
Colouring indicated Midge orchid

We spent the next 30 mins or so clambering up and over rocks, logs and between trees and bushes on a 30 degree hill slope in the vain hope of finding some in flower. Alas it was not meant to be ..Many Pterostylis rosettes were found as well.

Growing over shed bark

Back to camp for a late lunch and we now had company as 3 sites had been occupied. Later that afternoon the wind picked up so we rested and watched 4WDs, motorbikes, buggies and quads arrive for what may turn into a rowdy night. However they all disappeared to another camping spot as they numbered too many for this location. Thankyou!!!! After some soup for dinner we climbed into the camper and played cards before crashing into bed. It was a wet n windy night so not a great sleep was had. 

15/07/2018

Woke up to blue skies but the wind was still gusty. Had eggs n bacon again then slowly packed up. The camper roof was damp so used our gas heater to assist in the drying. Finally got a move on just after 11am. We quickly checked some granite outcrops on the drive back to the HWY but nothing found. Pulled into the Salmon Gums Roadhouse and grabbed a coffee and a meat pie, before making a beeline for Eldred Road. Nothing found near the HWY so we moved to the spot East of the largest lake where we found many Dark banded greenhoods, mainly at he base  of the larger trees. 

Crowded flowers
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Moving further south we next visit the Red Lake Townsite Nature Reserve where Pterostylis again reign supreme. More Dark banded greenhoods found with the unusual colouring like back at Peak Charles N.P. Also found were some Frog greenhoods (Pterostylis sargentii), which had formed their hood but had yet to open up the lateral sepals. Also found a lone flowering Midget greenhood. 

Final stop was at Truslove Townsite Nature Reserve where we looked for something other than a Pterostylis. Thank goodness we found them. Some donkey orchids were found with others yet to flower. I will name these as Green Range donkey orchid (Diuris sp. ‘Green Range’) which flower July to early September in a range from Denmark to Esperance. 

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Green Range donkey orchid

Green Range donkey orchid

So many yet to flower

We enjoyed our camping weekend exploring North of Esperance. Pterostylis reigned supreme but we did find our first Diuris species for the season. The number of rosettes and Cyrtostylis leaves found blew our minds. We must get back one day to see if they translate into flowers.

Road Trip – Day 20 – Harrismith to Home

Western Australian Orchids

20/9/2017

After having breakfast we make our way north to Dudinin which was a quaint little town but with no real prospects for orchid hunting we move on further north to a place called Jitarning. We park next to the CBH wheat bins and head into the bush adjacent. The area proves to be thick with Donkey orchids with a small patch of Pink candy orchids (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) found.

Pale to deep pink flowers
Upright labellum
Spreading petals and sepals with a narrow upright labellum
Labellum with short fringe segments and four or more rows of calli

The donkey orchids appear to be Yellow granite donkey orchids (Diuris hazeliae) as they are larger and brighter yellow than the ones found in Harrismith.

Tri-lobed labellum with broad, spreading lateral lobes and a broad, flattened to convex mid lobe
Bubble head
Reflexed, usually crossed lateral sepals
Visitor on 1 petal
Broad petals and dorsal sepal

So many donkey orchids but we need to move on. Well not to far as we cross the Williams-Kondinin Road and visit the bush the other side. The only orchid found over this side was the Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica). On walking back to the Triton we discover the area we had been exploring was in fact the Jitarning Nature Reserve.

United dorsal sepal and petals form a hood
Flowers only 4.5 to 5.5mm across

Next stop is the North Jitarning Nature Reserve a few kilometres north on the western side of the road. After parking the Triton we make our way west into the bush and our first find is the ever faithful Purple enamel orchid (Elythanthera brunonis). In fact they were everywhere in this reserve.

Glossy purple flowers
Up to 3 flowers per stem
Spreading petals and sepals
Underside of petals and sepals spotted in colouring
Small membranous labellum with two large black basal calli

Further hunting and we found some Frog greenhoods (Pterostylis sargentii) growing underneath some bushes.

50 – 200mm high with up to 10 stem leaves
Short lateral sepals
United petals and dorsal sepal form hood
Green to dark brown, white striped flowers

Then even further hidden under bushes Deb spies a bird orchid. Further specimens found, which all appear to be Dwarf bird orchids (Pterosylis sp. ‘dwarf’) as they are found between Eurardy Station and Peak Charles during August and September. We first found this orchid back in August 2016 near Corrigin.

Short lateral sepals which are joined at the base
Two close neighbours
A distinctive feather-like labellum with fine fringe segments
Short-beaked bird orchid

Further Fringe mantis orchids are found as are more Donkey orchids.

Comb-like fringe segments to labellum
Spreading petals
Greenish-yellow, red-tipped labellum
Up-swept lateral sepals

Unsure of the species of this one
Broad petals and dorsal sepal
Up to 7 flowers per stem
Lateral sepals reflexed and usually crossed

We were also lucky enough to find a spider orchid, which I am naming, Red thread spider orchid (Caladenia erythronema) as they flower August to early October in locations between Nyabing and Mukinbudin.

Variably dull red, pinkish red or dull cream to creamy yellow with dull red markings
Two rows of red to cream calli
Pendulous petals and sepals covered in deep-red hairs

We then make tracks for Kulin, to fuel up, then head off on the Tin Horse Hwy. After checking out some of the great Tin horses we make our way to Buckley’s Breakaway for lunch.

Picture stop
A Charlton Horston Epic
Ned’s Horse
PLC Piping Pony

Erosion artwork
Amazing colours
Harder rock than the surrounding soil
The breakaway is massive

On the walk from the car park / picnic area we find some Donkey orchids. Nothing else found on the walk around the breakaway, however it was an impressive sight.

Predominately yellow, brown marked flowers
2 – 3 basal leaves and up to 7 flowers
Erect petals and reflexed dorsal sepal
Reflexed, usually crossed lateral sepals
Tri-lobed labellum with broad, spreading lateral lobes and a broad, flattened to convex mid lobe

We now head further east, till we again reach Dragon Rocks Nature Reserve. At the northern end of the reserve, whilst earlier on the trip we were at the southern end. We find what we hoped was the road south, which dissects the reserve, and travel along slowly with heads out the windows looking for orchids. They proved more elusive than before but we did find our first ones. A finished Jug orchid then some Frog greenhoods.

Well past it’s best
Green to dark brown, white striped flowers
Petals and dorsal sepal form a hood

It was more than a half hour later, before any more orchids were found. Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) were a surprise find.

Up to 7 red and white flowers
Short spreading petals and lateral sepals
Large fleshy, oval, dark green and red speckled leaf
Prominently curved dorsal sepal forming hood over the column

Further south we come across some spider orchids. From their appearance I will name these Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia) due to the yellowish colouring, dark brownish tail filaments and backswept slightly elevated petals.

Petals backwards, elevated to horizontal
Petals and sepals with dark brownish tail filaments
Dorsal sepal erect to incurved, lateral sepals deflexed to drooping, petals backswept, usually elevated
Small white, red striped labellum with dentate fringe segments and two rows of white, sometimes red-tipped calli
Creamy-white to pale-yellow flowers

A solitary Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) and Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) were found a little further down the track, however as time was slipping away and we had previously visited the south of the Dragon Rocks N. R., we headed straight for our last stop of the day, being the Rock View Nature Reserve.

Bright distinctive orchid
Short spreading petals and sepals
United petals and dorsal sepal forms hood over the column
Green, brown and white flowers

It is now past 5.30pm when we arrive at Rock View N. R. so we quickly have a look around. First orchid I find is the Midget greenhood, whilst Debbie finds more spider orchids.

Midget greenhood
100 – 200mm high
Midget greenhood
Pterostylis mutica

From the appearance I believe these to be further Chameleon spider orchids.

Spreading petals and lateral sepals
Creaming white to pale yellowish flowers, occasionally with variable reddish toning
Two rows of white or red-tipped calli
A common variable inland spider orchid
White, red-striped labellum with dentate fringe segments
Relatively small labellum

Due to the inclement weather we did not wish to set up camp, however as we were unable to find overnight accommodation, this stop proved to be the final stop of our  2017 Road Trip.

11 orchid species found on the final day.

Road Trip – Day 17 – Petrudor to Walyormouring

Western Australian Orchids

17/9/2017

We wake to another beautiful spring morning, have breakfast , break camp and head south to Ballidu for morning tea. We check out the area where we found numerous orchids last year in August, however this time we only find some donkey orchids. As they have erect petals and broad, spreading lateral lobes to the labellum, I believe them to be Pale donkey orchids (Diuris sp. ‘mid-north’).

Erect petals and recurved apex to dorsal sepal
Dorsal sepal and lateral lobes have slight reddish edges
Broad reflexed dorsal sepal

Further south we go turning east at Kondut, then travelling south again to Reynoldson Flora Reserve. No orchids found but an unusual grevillea was prolific. Prickly Toothbrushes (Grevillea armigera). Verticordia the flower this reserve is famous for was just starting to flower as well.

Easy to see where the common name comes from
One of the 11 varieties that flower in this reserve. Best October – November

We pop into Wongan Hills, buy some supplies, have a counter lunch at the pub then head up to the Wongan Wildflower Walk to see if we can be lucky with finding some orchids. Deb is the lucky one who finds some very small Frog greenhoods (Pterostylis sargentii)  growing under bushes. Last August we found many spider orchids under the same bushes. Not this year though.

50 to 200 mm high with 3 to 10 stem leaves 8 to 30 mm long.
Short, broad, cupped lateral sepals joined at the base
United dorsal sepal and petals forming a hood over the column
Up to 6 green to dark brown, white banded flowers

Further along the walk we find some Purple enamel orchids (Elythranthera brunonis)  and some donkey orchids. From their features I am naming these Common donkey orchid (Diuris corymbosa) as they flower August to October and range from Gingin to Bunbury. Our location is a little ways Northeast however Atlas of Living Australia has a recorded sighting near Wongan Hills.

Short spreading petals and sepals
Small membranous labellum with two large, black basal calli

Yellow, brown and purple flowers
Broad, elongated petals.

Further along we finally find something from the Caladenia family. Ant orchid (Caladenia roei) found under a prickle bush. Taking photos proved a challenge however we had to get a shot.  Next came patches of Cowslip orchids (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)

Short down swept petals and lateral sepals
Smooth-margined, greenish-yellow labellum
This one has crossed his legs.
Common widespread fairy orchid
Also called Clown orchid, Man orchid and Jack-in-the-box.

Then on the way back to the Triton we find more donkey and enamel orchids.

Large black calli
Recurved dorsal sepal
Glossy look
Elongated petals

Leaving Wongan Hills we take the wrong turn which heads us south so we picked another route to take us back  north to Gathercole Nature Reserve. We spend the next 40 mins scouring over the granite outcrops looking for the elusive new find. More donkey orchids and Cowslips orchids were found plus a first for the day; (Prasophyllum gracile complex).  Unsure of exact species due to it being well past it’s prime.

Unsure of exact species
State of flower makes it difficult to distinguish exact species
Index finger size comparison
Usual yellow colouring

We then move North East to Dingo Rock Nature Reserve where further donkey and leek orchids are found. Exact species again not known which is a little disappointing, but we are no experts.

Exact species unknown
Appear to be Little laughing leek orchids but not 100% sure

We then made tracks East to Manmanning Nature Reserve, however no real place to pull over and as time was moving along we decided to travel south west to Oak Park picnic area to camp for the night. This little place has toilets facilities and picnic table and was situated on the banks of a creek that flows into Walyormourning Lake. A quick look around but nothing found.

6 named species found and others unable to be named. Not too bad a day. Here’s to tomorrow.

Road Trip 2017 – Delay

Western Australian Orchids

31/8/2017

We had planned to leave tonight and camp up at Mt Madden, however as I drove the Triton home from work the ENGINE light remained on, then as the sun set we noticed the headlights were not working. Called Dave our mechanic, who came around and after 2hrs he had replaced our globes, ballasts and exchange. So now we have lights and the ENGINE light is no longer on. We slowly pack the Triton and camper trailer and then go to bed with plans to leave early in the morning.

1/9/2017

Woke up around 5am, showered, last minute packing and then off to Puma to fill up the Triton. Around 6am we are finally on our way. First stop is the Ravensthorpe lookout which was the very first place ever that we found Jug orchids. Guess what is the first orchid found is ? …. Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva), what a great coincidence. As towing our camper at slow speed up a gravel hill is proving a challenge, we drive to the top and slowly make our way down. 2nd orchid found is Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta). A few scattered plants only, then a great group is found by Deb at the side of the road.

Recurva relates to the curved backwards of the lateral sepals
Horizontally spread petals and lateral sepals
Bluish-mauve flower
Size comparison with my index finger tip
Nice group shot

Nothing further found, other than more Jugs and Tiny Blues, so we make our way back to the track on level ground and closer to the Hwy we find some more Pterostylis orchids. We have now added another location for the Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica). Also found were some good old Banded greenhoods (Pterostylis vittata). Next stop is Ravensthorpe for a toilet break.

United petals and dorsal sepal forming hood
Light green, white banded flowers
Up to 15 pale green flowers
Blunt petals and sepals
100-200mm heigh

Lake King Nature Reserve on the Old Newdegate Rd is checked out with only Western tiny blue orchids found. Further along the road at the Dunn Rock Nature Reserve we find a spent Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii) and a yet to flower Red beak (Pyrorchis nigricans).

Reddish-mauve prominently tri-lobed labellum
Closed up and fertilised
Large fleshy pale green leaf

North of Newdegate we pull into a gravel pit for lunch, which is in the Rockview Nature Reserve. Here we find another Jug orchid. Our planned destination of Dragon Rocks Nature Reserve is reached just after 1pm and our first find is the little Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata). Further down the track our first glimpse of yellow delivers us our first Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava). Eye catching as usual.

 

Dark green, fawn and white flowers
Short mid-lobe with several rows of calli
Golden yellow, creamy yellow or white, often red marked flowers

We venture deeper into the bush and another colour appears. Pink. The first of many Pink candy orchids (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) is found and nearby is the first spider orchid of the day. These pretty orchids are found from Kalbarrie to Israelite Bay and flower late June to September. Common spider orchid (Caladenia vulgata) would appear to be the species found. Another yellow orchid is found. Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris sp. ‘western wheatbelt’) seems to be the one due to location.

 

Short spreading petals and lateral sepals
Upright labellum with short fringe segments and four or more rows of calli
Up to three pale to deep pink flowers

 

Creamy-white red-striped labellum
Usually pendulous petals and lateral sepals
Upright dorsal sepal

Yet to fully bloom in the wet weather
Hanging, often reflexed, crossed lateral sepals
Up to 4 pale yellow brown marked flowers.

Another spider orchid is found with much darker red tips to petals and sepals plus a larger labellum as well. Location and these colourings lead me to name it Ballerina spider orchid (Caladenia melanema). Found in the Pingaring – Lake Grace area (30kms away),  flowering August to mid September. We make it to Dragon Rocks themselves and growing on the granite are some Little laughing leek orchids (Prasophyllum gracile). Other spider, donkey, candy and sugar orchids are found, but as it is nearly 3pm we make tracks back to Newdegate to travel westwards.

Creamy-white flowers
Long pendulous petals and lateral sepals
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Found growing in shallow soil pockets on inland granite outcrops
Yellowish-green or rarely purplish flowers
Fused lateral sepals with elongated tips, forward facing dorsal sepal

Quick stop made at South Buniche Nature Reserve where we find some Dark banded greenhoods (Pterostylis sanguinea) and more Jug and Sugar orchids. Then onto Lake Grace lookout, a favourite location of ours, that has yet again produced results. First up is the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia  dimidia). Also found nearby was another Common spider orchid.

Up to 10 fleshy, dark reddish-brown to green , white banded flowers
A distinctive orchid 50 to 150 mm high
Also called: Recurved shell orchid, antelope orchid and bull orchid

Yellow, cream or pink-red flowers
spreading petals and lateral sepals
Up to 3 white to creamy-white flowers with narrow, usually pendulous petals and lateral sepals

Then a Sugar orchid is found under the scrub. Another spider orchid is found, this time a Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila) and a donkey orchid – possible a further Western wheatbelt donkey orchid. Jug orchids also found however as it is now getting dark and we plan to stay overnight in Wagin, we make tracks.

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small red-striped labellum
pendulous petals and lateral sepals

Possible Western whealbelt donkey orchid
dark green, fawn and white flowers

Overnight in Wagin at the local motel, very pricey for such a basic room, but as we ran out of daylight and with possible rain overnight, it seemed the easier option. Pizza enjoyed for dinner and time for sleep after a long first day. 16 orchids ticked off the list.