After not too cold a night we awake to a beautiful day in the Ongerup Gardens Caravan Park. After cereal for breakfast, we decide to go exploring the woodlands behind the caravan park. We take what we believe to be a rough track, but it peters out soon enough, so we go bush bashing in an attempt to find it again. We end up curving north and head up past the sporting complex. We cross Jaekel Steet and follow the track/s to the Yongergnow Malleefowl Centre, where we grab a coffee, for the walk back to the caravan park. The orchid count for such a good walk was a bit disappointing, however we did find some, so I will record them now.
Habitat: Growing in sandy or lateritic soils in woodlands and forests.
Season: October and November
Eight species ultimately found, however the numbers found were very low. Time to head toward Jerramungup, where we plan to check out a bush fire location, we spotted on the drive over on Monday.
Next stop on our winding drive back to Esperance is another new location. Anderson Lake Nature Reserve which is 30kms east as the crow flies from Pootenup Nature Reserve, will hopefully produce some different orchids. As we get close to the location it is apparent that it is much drier so let’s see if we actually find anything at all.
As anticipated, we struggled to find any orchids, however the ones found were indeed different. Very close to where we park, we find our first orchid. The Purple veined spider orchid (Caladenia doutchiae) flowers August through October, between Mullewa and Ravensthorpe. References checked indicate it is found growing on rises around salt lakes, which is exactly the habitat we are currently searching. Four sperate flowers were located, which portray the variable colouring to this species.
Smooth margined, variably coloured, red tipped labellum
Narrow band of labellum calli
Flowers 15 to 30mm across
Purple veins to sepals
Long, shortly clubbed lateral sepals
Short, backswept petals
It was another 15mins or so before we stumbled across another orchid. This time it was the Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica) that caught Debs eye. The lime green colouring stands out against the otherwise brown foliage. These small orchids flower July through October, between Wongan Hills and the SA border. They are also found in QLD, NSW, Vic, Tas and SA. Florabase mentions they are known to grow around saline lakes, again confirming we are in suitable habitat.
From the latin MUTICUS (without a point, awn less, blunt) alluding to the blunt petals and sepals.
The next orchid found was a pleasant surprise. First up we thought it was a frog greenhood, but as we settled in to take some photos it became apparent that it was another species. After getting back into the Triton we are excited to note that this is a new species for us. The Ruddy hood (Pterostylis perculta) flowers from late September to early November between Kojonup and Cape Arid National Park. It was only formally named in 2015, previously called sp. “Ongerup’ which alludes to its location. It is a small orchid growing to 150mm in height, may have up to 5 flowers per orchid and is found growing in sandy-clay and clay soils.
Almost hairless labellum
Straight to slightly upcurved lateral sepals
70-150mm in height
As alluded to earlier we had returned to the Triton as this location did not prove overly productive, however finding a new species is always amazing. We head north up to Gnowangerup, then west stopping along the roadside in Kebaringup. I believe this is only our 2nd time visiting this location so we will see what turns up this time.
Straight up the large white spider orchids catch our eye. The Stark white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens) is probably the species found, based solely on location. They flower August to early October between Moora and Esperance and can grow to 600mm in height.
Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile)
Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Green spider orchid (Caladenia falcata)
More Purple veined spider orchids are found in better numbers. Then another single specimen on anorchid is found. The Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media) is a widespread orchid being found flowering between Shark Bay and Eyre during the months of September through January. The final orchid found for the day was a good bunch of Jospeh’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma), which are found between Boyup Brook and the Fitzgerald River National Park during the months of September and October.
Purple-veined spider orchid (Caladenia doutchiae)
Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
We decide to move on and look for somewhere to stay the night. As we have 2 vehicles and a camper trailer, we make the decision to check into the Ongerup Gardens Caravan Park for the night. It was a choose you own site sort of place, so we parked up close to the ablutions. This was a great day orchid hunting in our wonderful Western Australian outdoors.
It is now past 11am, so we move on to our next location, Beaumont Nature Reserve. We find orchids already found today plus some new species and one hybrid, which is exciting.
Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila)
Distribution: Kondinin to Madura
Plant Height: 150-300mm
South coast donkey orchid(Diuris brockmanii)
Distribution: Ongerup to Esperance
Plant Height: 150-300mm
Sugar orchid(Ericksonella saccharata)
Distribution: Paynes Find to Israelite Bay
Plant Height: 50-150mm
Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementa)
Distribution: Wongan Hills to Israelite Bay
Plant Height: 80-300mm
Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana)
Distribution: Lancelin to Esperance
Plant Height: 150-400mm
Cowslip orchid(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Distribution: Northampton to Israelite Bay
Plant Height: 80-200mm
Pink fairies(Caladenia latifolia)
Distibution: Kalbarri to Israelite Bay
Plant Height: 120-450mm
Esperance white spider orchid(Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa)
Distribution: Bremer Bay to Israelite Bay
Plant Height: 200-500mm
Rigid white spider orchid(Caladenia longicauda subsp. rigidula)
Spectacular spider orchid (Caladenia x spectabilis)
Distribution: Kalbarri to Esperance
Plant Height: 100-350mm
Jug orchid(Pterostylis recurva)
Distribution: Geraldton to Israelite Bay
Plant Height: 300-900mm
?? snail orchid(Pterostylis sp)
We make our way back to the Triton and have ourselves some lunch. It was whilst eating lunch we spied the nice Jug orchids flowering, which was great as prior to this we had only found a Jug orchid that had been someone else’s lunch 🙂
From here we head back to Fisheries Road and check out a spot I had checked earlier in the year. Not much found but you never know until you check.
One week back at work after our 2022 road trip to Mt Augustus, we need to check out our local orchid haunts. So where to? Let us travel east of Esperance and see what is still flowering in late August.
First up we drive as far east as we will go today and call into our favourite spot along Parmango Road. After parking up, we waste no time as orchids are already spotted.
Distribution: Watheroo to Ongerup (Our location is outside this range)
Plant Height: 100-200mm
Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta)
Distribution: Dumbleyung to Mt Ragged
Plant Height: 50-150mm
Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile)
Distribution: Shark Bay to Eyre
Plant Height: 60-250mm
Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera)
Distribution: Shark Bay to Israelite Bay
Plant Height: 100-250mm
It is now past 11am, so we move on to our next location, Beaumont Nature Reserve.
We make our way back to the Triton and have ourselves some lunch. It was whilst eating lunch we spied the nice Jug orchids flowering, which was great as prior to this we had only found a Jug orchid that was someone else’s lunch 🙂
From here we head back to Fisheries Road and check out a spot I had checked earlier in the year. Not much found but you never know until you check.
We wake up to a fine, sunny but cold morning. As we are in no rush today, we have breakfast then go exploring the area for orchids, whilst our campers dry out in the sunshine. As we venture toward the granite rock, we discover a large number of Hairy-stemmed snail orchids (Pterostylis setulosa) growing under the sheoaks. Further snail orchids are found later on as well.
Also, at the base of the rock we find a Blue beard (Pheladenia deformis) which stands out in its vibrant blue colouring. Others are found later in the bush surrounding the rock.
From our previous visit to this location, we are aware most of the orchids are found in the bush surrounding the rock however we always have a bit of a climb just in case, plus the views are always amazing from atop these isolated granite outcrops. Usually growing on the rock as well as along the base are the bright yellow donkey orchids. Only a few were located this time round, so the Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae) is recorded for posterity.
Back on ground level we wander throughout the bush surrounding the rock and immediately come across numerous Drooping spider orchids (Caladenia radialis). These particular spider orchids are so called due to their usually drooping petals and sepals, including the dorsal sepals. They occur between Northampton and Jerramungup and are known to occur in clumps.
Another orchid found in good numbers was the Ant orchid (Caladenia roei)which is a common, widespread orchid. The labellum can range in colour from nearly all green to nearly all red. Their petals and sepals are said to be positioned in a crucifix shape.
Other random orchids were also found growing in the bushland. The common Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva)and a fertilised ?? Greenhood (Pterostylis sp.) represent their Genus whilst a lone Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata)and a newly unfurled spider orchid (Caladenia sp.) are the representatives for their Genuses. EDIT iNaturalist members have named my spider orchid the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia)
P. recurvaPterostylis sp.E. saccharataC. dimidia
We get back to camp and decide to have an early lunch before packing up the campers. Then Richard pulls out the mini-Magnums as a reward for surviving the adventurous road trip. We then head south and say goodbye at the Mount Walker Road intersection. It is now just Deb and me for the rest of the trip back to Esperance.
Knock up lunch including leftovers from Narembeen Cafe.Mini-Magnum Reward
We venture further south, making a left turn into Calzoni Road and drive slowly along looking for access to a granite rock I had discovered searching Google Maps. The access road is signposted Twine Reserve. We make our way down and park up to investigate. The rock is covered in pools of water and very thick damp patches of moss. It is growing in this moss that we find our first orchids. The Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) can grow up to 200mm in height and can have as many as 40 inverted flowers per plant.
We venture back into the vegetation/bush surrounding the rock and come across some more spider orchids. Now for the hard task of identifying them. However, after considering the location and the stance of the orchids they are most likely more Chameleon spider orchids (Caladenia dimida). Please correct me though if I am wrong.
One however did not meet the above criteria due to the size of the leaf and the overall yellow colouring. Please help me to name this one.
Similarly, to Roe Dam, other orchids are found, though usually only a single specimen, so I will record them together again. First up we have a Donkey orchid, then the Jug orchid, Sugar orchid, Greenhood, Ant orchid and Snail orchid are found.
D. hazeliaeP. recurvaE. saccharataP. sanguineaC. roeiP. setulosa
Moving back to Calzoni Road we head east to another chosen location. Gibb Rock is surrounded by farmland and has the obligatory water tank at its base. We park up at the tank and head into the bush at the base. Nothing to be found in the 10 mins of searching so we decide to push on. However, just before reaching the Triton Deb spies a lone Chameleon spider orchid growing in a patch of resurrection bush surrounding a pool of water. Whilst getting photos of this a Little laughing leek orchid also comes into view.
C. dimidiaP. gracileGibb Rock tank
Leaving Gibb Rock, we head south and call into Mulka’s Cave for a look. The handprints were visible which was great, however did not bother with looking for orchids as it was so weedy.
Turnoff to the cave and The Humps walk trailOpening at the back of the caveHand prints
We pass through Hyden and keep heading south, where we finally pull over at Lake Hurlstone Nature Reserve. First up we head across the road to the west and then venture towards the gully. First up we find some colourful donkey orchids. Now using the location as a guide, I feel these orchids are one of two possible species. However, the bright yellow colouring leads me to name them the Yellow granite donkey orchid as they are also found along drainage lines below rocky breakaways, which feels like the habitat we are currently in. The other option, Western wheatbelt donkey orchid, is listed as being pale yellow.
Further along we find some still flowering Dark banded greenhoods (Pterostylis sanguinea) which I am confident to name now, which I was not so with the greenhoods found earlier in the day. They start to flower in June and are recorded as flowering into September.
A couple of Sugar orchid are found, followed by 2 decent Jug orchids. Not many for what can be very common orchids. On the other side of the gully, I stumble across some small spider orchids. Possible two different species found. First up some look like the familiar Chameleon spider orchid and the other orchid may be the Ironcaps spider orchid (Caladenia paradoxa) which is described as having wispy, often pendulous petals and lateral sepals with a white, red striped labellum.
A final small orchid is found over both sides of the road. The Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta)was only named in 2021. It differs to the Frog greenhood by the shape of the horn like structures on the labellum. This was a great little find to end our day.
It is now past 4pm so we grab one last view over the woodland to the lake then jump into the Triton and head down to Varley, where we set up camp in the so-called Chicken Ranch.
View toward Lake HurlstoneVarley’s chicken ranch – Free overnight campingBird watching during sunset
We are packed up and ready to leave by 10am on a beautiful sunny day. The Westonia Caravan Park is an awesome place to spend a few nights as the area around has so much to offer. Travelling south to the Great Eastern Highway, we turn west and make our way to Merredin. We decide to check out the reserve around Merredin Peak as this could be a great spot for some orchids. We were not disappointed.
We parked up at the RV Parking area closest to the rock as that was our main focus. However, to ensure we checked out a variety of habitat we venture along the Bush Trail first. (Due to time constraints, we only walked the trail I have highlighted in RED on the above map snip). Excitedly the first orchids found are some spider orchids. A trio of small clumps are found, with all appearing to be the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia), which is a common inland orchid of variable colourings; yellow, cream or pink-red flowers with white or pale-yellow labellum with red markings. Now you can see why these smaller spider orchids are so hard to positively identify.
Nearby we also find a little group of Ant orchids (Caladenia roei) growing. These are cheerful looking orchids, so are also commonly known as Clown orchids. They are a common widespread orchid, being found from Eurardy Station to Ravensthorpe.
Soon enough another spider orchid is found. These have a smooth-edged labellum with dense bands of calli plus the dorsal sepal is drooping. From these features it is the Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) which is also a common orchid across inland locations, from Northampton to Jerramungup.
Donkey orchids are found at the base of the granite rock growing in the wet areas. The Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae) is a common inland orchid growing between Paynes Find and Salmon Gums. It is possible some may be a different species. Please let me if you think so.
Up on the rock in the mossy area we luckily find a few small Little laughing leek orchids (Prasophyllum gracile) growing. Not the best photos taken but still a record of their location. These small orchids are very widespread, growing between Shark Bay and Eyre. They grow on granite inland but in scrublands, woodlands and swamps nearer the coast.
Now we did come across many more spider orchids on the track, but I am struggling to identify them confidently. They range in colour, stance and size of both flower and leaf. For that reason, I will post the best pictures taken and will for now just call them Caladenia sp. Any ideas on the actual species please let me know and I will post an edit. EDIT 2 iNaturalist members have agreed they are all colour variations of the Chameleon spider orchid.
We move on as it’s now after 12 and lunch is calling as is the need to get some kilometres driven. Prior to leaving Merredin though we have to grab a look at and take a photo of the painted silos.
Leaving Merredin, we head west along the highway to Hines Hill where we turn south, down Hines Hill Road. It is at the intersection of Jura West Road that we pull over and check out a patch of vegetation. We all head off in different directions and my first orchid found is the common Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa). Not common here today but some others were found later in the search. Another Pterostylis orchid is found but has already been fertilised and has closed up. The Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula)is a recently named species which as the name suggests is restricted to mallee regions. It is listed occurring from Dalwallinu to the Eyre Bird Observatory.
P. setulosaP. setulosaP. setulosaP. setulosaP. arbuscula
Deb as usual has the more exciting find. She comes across some small spider orchids. However, after the initial excitement it appears they are all Chameleon spider orchids. Nice to find, but a new species would have been great.
Chameleon spider orchids in the breeze
And to end the search of the area, a record of the one and only Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta)is still to be posted, so here it is. It was found in the middle of all the spider orchids. As the common name suggests, these little guys only grow to 15omm in height and the flowers are 20 – 25 mm across.
C. aperta
Past lunch time and we need something to eat, so off we head into Bruce Rock. Unable to secure a counter meal at the local pub, we venture down to the local cafe, Bruce Rock Cafe (Love that Food) where we were surprised with the choices available. We sat outside to eat as the weather was mild. Well fed, we then move on.
With no real direction planned we head into Narembeen, so that Richard can change his tyre, on a solid flat surface, as the spinout north of Bullfinch seems to have caused the tyre to wear very badly. Narembeen has a great overnight campsite in the town, but we decide to head out to Roe Dam for our last joint overnight camp of the trip. We don’t have the site to ourselves, but we set up as best we can, light a campfire and enjoy the wonderful evening.
So, we awake in Yealering on the Sunday after enjoying the Regatta on the lake the previous day. We are in the local caravan park with friends Sandy, Noel and Richard. After breakfast we all pack up our respective campers and make our separate way home. For us this will be an excuse to go orchid hunting. Fancy that!!!
I do not have a record in my little black book, and I am writing this record more than 12mths after the fact, so my memory fails me. So, this record will record locations and finds only, with no commentary, which some may find refreshing.
Upswept lateral sepalsComb-like fringe segments to labellum
Green spider orchid
(Caladenia falcata)
200 – 400mm in height
Flowers – Late Aug to Oct
Location – Wongan Hills to Jerramungup
Double-header
Smooth yellow crested mid lobe to columnUp to 10 flowers per orchid
Granite sun orchid
(Thelymitra petrophila)
100 – 350mm in height
Flowers – Aug to Nov
Location – Mullewa to South Australia
Grows in shallow soli pockets on granite or breakaways
Elongated petals
Small flowered donkey orchid
(Diuris porrifolia)
150 – 350mm in height
Flowers – Late July – Sept
Location – Moora to Albany
Narrow, sometimes crossed lateral sepals
Elbow orchid
(Spiculaea ciliata)
100-180mm in height
Flowers – Oct to Jan
Location – Kalbarri to Grasspatch
Not fully open
EIGHTY SIX GATE ROAD – UNNAMED NATURE RESERVE
Inverted flowers- Lateral sepals pointing upwards
Little laughing leek orchid
(Prasophyllum gracile)
60 – 200mm in height
Flowers – Jul to Oct
Location – Shark Bay to Eyre
Up to 40, 2-3mm wide flowers per orchid
Granite sun orchid
(Thelymitra petrophila)
Leaf – Narrow, 4-6mm in width
Colour – Blue, purple or pink
Yellow, red marked flowersTri-lobed labellum with short fringe segments and 2 rows of calli
Cowslip orchid
(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
100 – 250mm in height
Flowers – Jul to early Dec
Location – Geraldton to Israelite Bay
Spreading petals and sepals
Labellum has been triggeredUsual position of labellum
Green spider orchid
(Caladenia falcata)
Another common name – Fringed mantis orchid
Leaf – Single, erect, hairy leaf 100-200mm in length
4 or more rows of deep red calli
Dull, straw-coloured flowers
Elbow orchid
(Spiculatea ciliata)
Habitat – In the north sandy soils over sandstone, In the south soil pockets on granite
Leaf – Fleshy, green and red infused leaf, which is shriveled at time of flowering
Loosely-hinged labellum
Mauve-blue to purple flowersFlattened labellum with numerous calli
Blue china orchid
(Cyanicula gemmata)
40 – 150mm in height
Flowers – Aug to early Nov
Location – Kalbarri and Israelite Bay
Single, short, broad, flattened leafLeaf is purple-suffused underneath
Harrismith / Dudinin area
Granite sun orchid
(Thelymitra petrophila)
Neendaling
Green spider orchid
(Caladenia falcata)
Up to 8 flowers per orchid
Shy sun orchid
(Thelymitra graminea)
150 – 350mm in height
Flowers – Oct to Nov
Location – Perth to Esperance
Column has smooth yellow crested mid lobeThin leaf, 4-5mm in width
Little laughing leek orchid
Little laughingleek orchid
(Prasophyllum gracile)
Common mignonette orchid
(Microtis media subsp. media)
Common mignonette orchid
Newdegate
Upswept, narrowly clubbed lateral sepalsDeep red calli on labellum
Small mantis orchid
(Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima)
170 – 350mm in height
Flowers – Aug to early Oct
Location – Jerramungup to Israelite Bay
Backswept, deflexed to dropping petals
Little laughing leek orchid
(Prasophyllum gracile)
Inverted flowers
You can tell we are moving into the last few months of the Western Australian orchid season as we only located 9 species over multiple inland locations. The Southwest corner has a much longer season than both the inland and Southeastern areas.
Well, what else do you do on a RDO in spring but go Orchid Hunting. Today we head out east of Esperance in the hope of finding some different species to those found around the lakes and at Helms Arboretum last weekend.
First up we head past Condingup and head north up Parmango Road. At our usual location we slowly drive in, hanging out the windows looking for orchids, then park up and head further in on foot.
At the clearing where we park up, we are surprised to find the beautiful Custard orchid (Thelymitra villosa). This striking orchid flowers during the spring months, over a large range from Northampton to Israelite Bay. It is known to have up to 20 flowers per plant.
Broad spreading petals and sepalsDistinctive column, with dense orange tufts
Located very close by is the glistening Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis). This sun loving orchid flowers from August to early November over a similar range, Kalbarri to Israelite Bay.
Similar sized, petals and sepalsPattern on reverse of petals/sepals showing throughRarely has 3 flowers per plant.
Time to head off on foot as you do find more orchids this way. Backtracking toward Parmango Road first though as Deb spied a bird orchid on the drive in. Only one specimen found and appears to be the Bearded bird orchid (Pterostylis turfosa) as the species named Esperance bird orchid was included as an eastern variety of P. turfosa.
Petals joined forming long pointed hoodDensely hairy labellum – gives common name
Also found here was a smaller yellow orchid. The Bee orchid (Diuris laxiflora) also flowers during the spring months, though only flowers as far northwest as Gingin from Esperance.
Broad labellum mid-lobeYellow, brown marked flowersThis one could be the related Common bee orchid (D. decrementa)
Finally, we head west along the track. A single, solitary Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora) is found. No others were found along this track today. The prominently clubbed sepals allowed me to ID it, as the similarly located and similarly featured Heberle’s spider orchid causes no end of confusion, when trying to ID these king type spider orchids.
4 or more rows of deep red calliProminently clubbed sepals
Another small yellow orchid catches our eye. The tiny Twisted sun orchid (Thelymitra flexuosa), is so named due to a distinctive zig-zagged flower stem. The flowers themselves are listed as being 12 – 15mm across which is smaller than a 5c piece. We have only found this species a couple times before, so this is an exciting find.
Short-crested column with a thickened mid lobeCan have 4 flowers per plant
Amazingly the next orchid is also yellow in colour. The more common Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera) which is so named due to the antennae like structures to the column. These orchids flower as far north as Shark Bay from Israelite Bay to our east.
Broad spreading petals and sepalsDark ear-like lateral lobes to column
Finally, an orchid that is not yellow in colour. The striking Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp.media) can stand up to 600mm in height and can have up to 100 yellowish-green flowers per plant. Each flower is miniscule being only 2-3mm across.
The single tube like leaf can be longer than the flower height. Flowers have hood-like dorsal sepals
The surprise find for the day was a solitary hammer orchid, which is well and truly fertilised and slowly shriveling up. The only recorded hammer orchid in the Shire of Esperance is the King-in-his-carriage (Drakaea glyptodon). The distinctly pouched labellum is not apparent, though it may have just shrivelled away.
Narrow hanging petals and lateral sepalsSmooth heart shaped leaf
Another single specimen found. Hiding in a bush the Shy sun orchid (Thelymitra graminea)is living up to its common name. There are four visually similar blue sun orchids flowering in the Esperance district so my identification may be incorrect, so please feel free to enlighten me.
Broad , spreading petals and sepalsColumn has a smooth, yellow crested mid lobe with white tufted lateral lobes
Next up is an orchid that apparently smells bad. As they are so small and close to the ground, I have never put that to the sniff. The White fairy orchid (Caladenia marginata) is an orchid that is stimulated by fire and is usually found around granite outcrops. That is the case for our nearby Cape Le Grand rock location, however no visible granite at this location.
Creamy-white in colourSmall labellum with short fringe segments
Another sun orchid is found in the old damp gravel pit area, however due to the deep cleft in the mid-lobe of the column I believe it to be the Slender sun orchid (Thelymitra vulgaris). They are one of the weird self-pollinating orchids, as are the Twisted sun orchids.
Deep cleft to the mid-lobeNarrow leaf 4 – 8 mm in width – Blurred photo
Next up is a mutated orchid I believe. It appears to be a Lemon-scented sun orchid however it does not have a normal looking column. I would love to have your thoughts on this unusual specimen.
Usual spreading petals and sepalsUnusual structure to column
Another amazing orchid is found poking up through the undergrowth. Rattle beaks (Lyperanthus serratus) in its dull green and maroon colourings is a beautiful orchid. They may have up to 10 flowers per plant and can reach heights of 500mm. They have a distinctive leaf which we regularly find prior to the flowering season but feel blessed when we find one flowering.
Densely hairy yellow-white labellumNarrow petals and lateral sepals
In the gravelly or rocky wet area, we were staggered to find the Pointing spider orchid (Caladenia exstans). We had previously found this orchid at Thomas River and Dempster Head which are in listed habitat of near coastal granite. We are around 25kms from the coast with no apparent granite so did not expect to find these orchids here. Actually, we have also found them at Boyatup which is a similar distance inland but also has granite everywhere.
Further orchids were found but not great photos taken so will record them here and put up the best photo I have of them. Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) in a nice bright red form. Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea) in washed out colours plus the Laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum macrostachyum) with its beautiful red lined sepals and petals.
Well, this track walked along proved a great spot with many species found. We can’t linger at one place too long so back to the Triton we trudge and onward to our next location.
We pull into Beaumont Nature Reserve which is little further north along Parmango Road. Here we again make our way on foot as the track is too tight and will scratch the crap out of the Triton. It is not long before we find our first orchid. Interestingly it is another Rattle Beaks, closely followed by more Zebra orchids and Bee orchids
Walking further along the track we find other previously found orchids. This time another Purple enamel orchid appears shining in some brief sunlight, further Common mignonette orchids stand tall and yellow Lemon-scented sun orchids are visible against the drying foliage.
Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media)Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera)
Next up the blue sun orchids start to appear in numbers. From the thin leaf I believe they are further Shy sun orchids and another Slender sun orchid is found, with its deeply clefted column mid lobe. Maybe we will find something new here the further we venture in.
Shy sun orchid (Thelymitra graminea)Shy sun orchid – showing size of leafSlender sun orchid (Thelymitra vulgaris)
And guess what? We did find something new for the day. From what I can tell this spider orchid appears to be a Hybrid but could also just be a pale coloured Esperance king spider. What are your thoughts?
Prominently red-tipped white labellum4 rows of calliClubbed petals and sepals
Another yellow orchid is found, and it is amazing it has taken this long to find the very widespread common Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava). These orchids vary greatly in the brightness of their yellow and the patterns of their markings.
Bright yellow with dotsDull yellow with dots and stripe
The next orchid found is confusing as the location would lead the ID to be the Short sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura), however a lack of clubbing to the lateral sepals seems to indicate the Ant orchid (C. roei)may be the correct ID, but these orchids only go as far East as Ravensthorpe. However, my iNaturalist record has confirmed the first choice.
Down-swept petalsSmooth-margined labellumDense, central band of calli
A new colour for the day appears in the undergrowth. The Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) is an unexpected find. They are however listed as occurring as far east as Israelite Bay, so should not be a surprise. The pink colouration is varied from very pale pink, almost white to vivid pink.
Spreading petals and sepalsStand up to 250mm in heightUpright labellum with bright pink calli
Talking about a splash of yellow. We have finally reached the granite area with a stream running through it and there is a good number of orchids flowering here. A standout is a great clump of the Elegant donkey orchid (Diuris concinna) which is bright yellow with some small brown markings. This is the best bunch I’ve ever seen.
Slightly brown marked bright yellow flowersForward projecting lateral sepalsStand up to 400mm in height
Flowering nearby was the closely related Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementa) which is known to grow on shallow soil on granite outcrops. They were found in large numbers the more we ventured.
Brown marked labellum and dorsal sepalTop-down viewIntermixed with Blue flowers and Swamp mignonette orchids
As pictured above with the bee orchids was the small Swamp mignonette orchid (Microtis atrata) which as the name suggests are found in seasonally wet flats and run-off areas around granite outcrops. They are only 40 to 80mm in height.
Up to 40 tiny yellowish-green flowersColony forming habitSingle, smooth, tubular leaf
Other orchids were found growing on the shallow soil surrounding the granite, including Rabbit orchids (Leptoceras menziesii) and Lemon-scented sun orchids. Rabbit orchids have ear-like petals that provide the common name and very forward projecting lateral sepals.
Plus of course granite loving orchids are also found. The Granite sun orchid (Thelymitra petrophila) is an inland occurring orchid that flowers from August to November, however, the Coastal sun orchid (Thelymitra granitora) is also recorded as being found on inland granite outcrops northeast of Esperance and flowers during August and September. I think we have found both as the Coastal sun orchid is said to have a fleshy flower stem and the photos do seem to show one with a thicker stem.
Thick fleshy stem (T. granitora)Thinner stem (T. petrophila)Up to 350mm in height (T. petrophila)Up to 200mm in height (T. granitora)
Other orchids found in the woodlands and on the granite were more Common mignonette orchids and Shy sun orchids.
Shy sun orchid (Thelymitra graminea)Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media)
The most exciting find at this location was the hybrid of the Lemon-scented sun orchid and one of the blue sun orchids. This hybrid is a wonderful pinkish tone with bright yellow antennae. (Thelymitra x)
Just amazing colours Stance and antennae of T. antinnifera
What a great location this has turned out to be, however, we decide to move on. Next stop is Condingup Hill. (Mud Map SE39) We had barely turned off Fisheries Road when the first orchids are seen. The common Purple enamel orchid comes in first place for this location, closely followed by the small Twisted sun orchid.
Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)Twisted sun orchid (Thelymitra flexuosa)
Next up a king type spider orchid is found. However, I have no idea if it is an Esperance king, Heberle’s or a hybrid. Both the aforementioned species have spreading petals/sepals and with this specimen they are hanging. They appear to be clubbed and particularly thin when compared to the large labellum. Ideas on ID welcome.
White, red tipped labellumClubbed petals and sepalsThin, hanging petals and sepals
Higher up the track at the swampy flat area we find some more Swamp mignonette orchids and a Lemon-scented sun orchid.
Swamp mignonette orchid (Microtis atrata)Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera)
At the corner, underneath a bush we are happy to find the Bearded bird orchid in flower. Actually, there is more than one in flower which is great.
We choose not the check out the lookout or Telstra tower area, so we drive back down and look along Fisheries Road just before the Condingup townsite sign. As expected, we locate some Esperance white spider orchids (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa) growing in the swampy ground.
Four of more rows of pale red calliStand up to 500mm in heightBroad based petals and lateral sepals
The only other orchids found flowering here were some Purple enamel orchids. So, we grab some quick snaps then jump back into the Triton and head west.
We turn into Ridgelands Road and head north. Stopping at a patch of non-farmland we venture down into what appears to be an area leading to a swamp/lake. The ground is covered in dry leaf litter but growing here and there are some tall sun orchids. Most likely Shy sun orchids again due to location and thickness of the leaf.
Stand up to 350mm in height4-5mm leaf widthBeautiful coloursWhite tufted lateral lobes to columnYellow crested mid-lobe to columnUp to 8 flowers per orchid
Moving to the other side of the road, it is apparent the vegetation is different and straight away we find some Esperance white spider orchids.
4 or more rows of pale red calliBroad, spreading petals and sepalsNarrow fringe segments to labellum
Another, Caladenia species found which occurs between Ravensthorpe and Israelite Bay is the Short sepaled spider orchid. This small spider orchid is distinguished by its south easterly location and short sepal tips which are clubbed. At least these ones have clubs unlike the one found earlier today. There colouring varies considerably from dark red to light green.
A more typical colouring Short, incurved, upright dorsal sepalGreenish colour variantReddish colour variantAlways a red tipped labellum even with colour variantsShort club tipped lateral sepalsSmooth margined labellumDense, central band of dark red calli
Other orchids found include the ever-reliable Cowslip orchid, more Purple enamel orchids, a patch of Elegant donkey orchids and the Common mignonette orchid.
After 4pm, so time to make tracks home. At least 27 orchid species found with a hybrid or 2 thrown in. One last picture to post of a herd of Zebras coz I like it. No other reason!!
We awake to a cold , wet and miserable day, but we won’t let that stop us from going exploring for orchids. Finally the rain stops, so after a bite of lunch, we head up to the Bluff Knoll lookout however the actual mountain is nearly covered in clouds. The feature picture show some of the amazing metal artwork installed there. Some close-up images are included here for your appreciation.
So now is the time to commence our exploration of the area. We have a very quick scout around the lookout and parking area, where we see a few orchids. However on the drive into the lookout we saw some possible spots to check out along the roadside. So it is at these couple of stops, in between showers, that we locate the following orchids.
It’s now past 2.30pm so we only have a few hours of daylight left to explore, so we will keep close to our base. Therefore we make tracks north of the National Park, to visit the nearby Formby Nature Reserve (Google Maps), which is signposted as the Mabinup Creek Nature Reserve. The northern boundary of the park is found to be very weedy and the creek is overflowing, which does not thrill us too much. So we head back down Formby Road South and venture in on the eastern boundary. Next time we need to pack wellington boots as the place is flooded, but we venture in nonetheless, after applying insect repellent, as the mozzies may become troublesome. This place proves to be covered in orchids in large numbers and many species, which is amazing to us. Refer the following images of the orchids found.
I just had to pop in some photos to show how many orchids were at this location as well as the ones we found swimming.
Stark white spider orchidCommon bee orchidStark white spider orchidJoseph’s spider orchidsStark white spider orchids & Green spider orchidJoseph’s spider orchids en masseStark white spider orchids en masse
It is now after 4.30 so we head back toward our base at the Stirling Range Retreat, but as per usual we make one more stop. We pull off the road before the Mount Trio turn-off and head down this gravel track. This is a new location for us in the park and it proves to be quite fruitful. Our quick stop though runs into another hour. Luckily the rain holds off. Here is what we found.
With the light running out fast we do a u-turn, head back to Formsby Road South and make tracks for our little cabin. What an amazing afternoon of orchid hunting we have had today, especially given the cold and wet morning we awoke to. I think we found 23 species and at least 3 hybrids which is mind blowing but this National Park and it’s surrounding are like an oasis in the middle of cleared land for agriculture.
WA Orchid Adventures 