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!!

Slim Pickings on a Sunny Day: Orchid Hunting Adventures

Mount Burdett NR, Nature Reserves, Sunday Drive, Western Australian Orchids

19/05/2024

It’s past midway of May so we anticipate some other orchids are starting to show themselves. So, northeast of Esperance we head with our first stop being one of our usual haunts in Neridup¹.

The only orchid found during a quick sweep of the location was the Hare orchid (Leporella fimbriata).

They are a very distinctive orchid with thin upright petals that appear to be ears and a prominently fringed labellum.

Flowering: March – June
Distribution: Shark Bay to Israelite Bay

Moving on towards our planned destination we pull into a track on a whim and have a quick look around.² Not much found here either.

First up we find the Pygmy orchid (Corunastylis fuscoviridis), however they are finished for the season. Pics taken for recording purposes only.

Flowering: March – May
Distribution: Corrigin to Eucla

Then we come across the Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata) which is the most common of the greenhood orchids.

Flowering: April – September
Distribution: Perth to Israelite Bay

Then a small greenhood orchid is found that is just sprouting its first flower. From the colouring and size, I believe it will be the Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula).

Flowering: June – July
Distribution: Dalwallinu to Eyre Bird Observatory

Next, we move onto our planned destination, Mount Burdett, which is also located in the Mt Burdett Nature Reserve. We enjoy a late bite to eat for lunch before starting our search.

On the granite rock we locate some bunny orchids growing. By referring to the latest book by Andrew Brown I ID them as the Eastern granite bunny orchid (Eriochilus dilatatus subsp. “eastern granites”).

Flowering: April and May
Distribution: Esperance to Balladonia

Then around the back of the rock I discover the sole Hare orchid growing. Last year there were more but not today 🙁

Well not such a productive day, however it is always wonderful to get out on a beautiful sunny winters day.

30/07/2023 ….. A week spent wandering – Part 9 – The End

Numerous days, Road Trip, Western Australian Orchids

After making and eating our complimentary breakfast, we pack up the Triton on a beautiful sunny winters morning and make tracks towards home. Overall, we enjoyed our stay at the Newdegate Hotel, plus it was great value for money.

About 15kms into our drive we make our first stop and check out the verge vegetation which is quite wide at the section of the road. As has proven common over this last week or so the first orchids found are the greenhoods. However, this time they appear to be another species due to the brown colouring. I feel they are all the Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula) which is listed as having either brown and white or green and white flowers, is of short stature and has no more that 5 flowers per plant. The location is within their listed range, and they flower during June and July.

Orchids from the Pterostylis genus are the only other orchids found at this location. First up is an almost open Jug orchid (P. recurva) followed by an almost open Frog greenhood (P. sargentii). Then a sole Robust snail orchid (Pterostylis dilatata) is found flowering. These orchids are widespread from Northampton to Toolinna. The lack of a rosette on flowering plants is a distinctive feature.

Nothing more, other than Red Beak leaves and some Caladenia leaves, so we move further along the road before making another roadside stop.

The next stop is also just another patch of pterostylis orchids. The greenhoods this time appear to be the Dark banded greenhood (Pterostylis sanguinea) which are consistently brown and white in colour, have more flowers per plant and are taller in stature than P. arbuscula. However, on closer inspection of my photos I think some of them may be P. arbuscula as they have green/brown and white flowers and 10 or less cauline leaves. What are your thoughts?

More Frog greenhoods (Pterostylis sargentii) are also found however excitedly some of these ones a fully formed. These are the earlier flowering of the 2 species, and I was able to get some good pics of the fleshy, glabrous horn-like structures on the labellum, which are distinctive features.

Only thing else found was a nice patch of Sun orchid (Thelymitra sp.) leaves and a single red backed Pink fairy leaf?
So onward we go to Lake King where we make a toilet stop, before heading out to Frank Hahn National Park. Here we visit Lillian Rock where we eat lunch before exploring the rock area. Only sign of orchids here were also a patch of leaves, identification of which I will not attempt.
Disappointedly we leave here and move south down Cascade Road then right onto West Point Road and left onto Melaleuca Road. Past River Road intersection we make a roadside stop and still no orchids. A 2nd roadside stop at different looking habitat still turns up nothing, so we make a beeline for a known orchid location.

We arrive at one of our favourite and reliable locations on Mills Road. Here we immediately spy the bright yellow donkey orchids. They are found over the entire area we walk around which is quite amazing. Identifying them is difficult as 2 very similar species are listed as occurring in the Ravensthorpe shire and this location is only 20km from the coast. The possible species are the Green Range donkey orchid (Diuris littoralis) and the South coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii). Heights range from 180/150mm to 300mm and flowering season – Jul/Jun to Sep/Aug respectively, which adds to ID confusion. Seems size of the flower may assist with ID so I may need to take photos with tape measure in view to assist with this next time.

Only other orchids found here were further greenhoods and snails. The greenhoods are darker in colour so again may be either P. sanguinea or P. arbuscula. Please assist in the ID if you can.
The snails though appear to be the Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa) a common inland species, which is extremely variable in appearance.

From here we head into Munglinup townsite where I check out a vacant block while Deb fills up the Triton with diesel. More donkey orchids are found, plus some Caladenia sp. leaves with one in bud. However, the exciting find was a small orchid I nearly stepped on whilst walking over to Deb, who had driven down to pick me up.
A lone tiny Pink bunny orchid (Eriochilus scaber subsp. scaber) was found. This was surprising as this spot had not been recently burnt and over previous visits they had not been found.
These small orchids only grow to a maximum height of 150mm; however, this specimen would have been only 30mm. Nearby a patch of 5 in flower was found with one in particular being a much stronger pink in colour. It would have been great to explore a bit more, but it is nearly 4pm so onwards we go.

From Munglinup we travel east to Coomalbidgup where we check out a burnt-out area. We are knocked over by the patches of Pink bunny orchids found. However other than these the only other flowering orchid found was a poor but recognisable Hare orchid (Leporella fimbriata), as well as Red beaks in bud and Caladenia sp. leaves.

Well, we have finally reached the end of our time away and make tracks back to Esperance. Unfortunately, we did not find the elusive Queen of Sheba orchid in flower but may have found it in bud, which is exciting. It will take another trip in another season to locate a flowering specimen. The masses of Pink bunny orchids though were a definite orchid highlight of the trip. Whilst the Lights in Kings Park, revisiting The Gap in Albany and just spending a relaxing time away with my beautiful wife were the non-orchid highlights.

22/07/2023 ….. A week spent wandering – Part 2

Boyagin NR, Midgegooroo NP, National Parks, Nature Reserves, Numerous days, Road Trip, Western Australian Orchids

We awake to a beautiful sunny winters day and enjoy the complimentary breakfast at the Exchange Tavern. Before heading off we go for a walk around the town centre of Pingelly and grab a few pics of the wonderful buildings and parks.

It’s past 10am, so we leave Pingelly and head northwest to our first orchid hunt of the day; Boyagin Nature Reserve. Pulling over on the edge of the road we venture into the bush. First orchid found is the unique and I think special Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata) which flowers from late April to early September, over a large range, Perth to Israelite Bay. I never tire of finding these orchids, especially the larger ones with many flowers. They can be inconspicuous due to the green and white colouring, however in this location they stood out against the brown leaf litter.

Nothing else found in the bush so we venture up to the Boyagin Rock parking area, so we could explore the granite outcrop, as an alternative habitat to the bush. Not a great success with the only orchids found being a few snail orchids at the base of the rock in the soggy moss laden leaf litter. The Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa) is a common inland orchid which comes in many variations in size and hairiness. Only 2 decent pics taken. Maybe later in the season it may be a more productive location.

With a small sense of disappointment, we head off further west and make one final stop in the reserve by making another roadside search. Another Pterostylis orchid is found, this time the small Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii) is found growing near the gravel rock outcrop. These orchids are found flowering from July to early September over an inland range between Murchison River and Mt Ragged.

Further Banded greenhoods are found; however, some have brown colouring to them so they may be the Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula) which is a smaller orchid with variably coloured flowers. Unlike P. vittata which is noted as having translucent flowers, P. arbuscula is noted as having semi-translucent flowers. The flowers with brown colourings do seem less translucent so I am confident they are P. arbuscula. Any comments in agreement or not are welcome.

Getting peckish, so we move on and pull into our Williams Road location, where we enjoy lunch on the tailgate of the Triton. Satisfied, we go exploring and finally in a location with many orchids, however still only of the Pterostylis genus. More Mallee banded greenhoods, Banded greenhoods, Hairy-stemmed snail orchids and Frog greenhoods are found. Unsure of the ID of some greenhood orchids but will post more pics as a record of all of these orchids.

Now for the exciting part. We find a good number of the Red-veined shell orchid (Pterostylis hamiltonii) which flowers from late May to early August over a range between Toodyay and the Stirling Range. There are also some greener coloured shell orchids which may be P. scabra but I will not confirm that ID as yet.

For the first time ever at this location, we met a fellow orchid hunter. I was able to show him the Frog greenhood, which was a first for him. We said our goodbyes and headed off towards Perth but pull over at the Midgegooroo National Park for one last quick hunt. Not too much found, just a solitary greenhood orchid. Actual ID unknown so will post pic for record purposes. ID with assistance required!!!

OK so now it’s time to reach the city and get ready for the Kings Park Lightscape experience. Went with my in-laws and completed the 2km walk trail set throughout the park. It was an amazing experience, though pushing a wheelchair the whole way was tiring, but well worth the effort, so that dad could enjoy the lights.

21/07/2023 ….. A week spent wandering – Part 1

Dragon Rocks NR, Numerous days, Road Trip, Western Australian Orchids

Our one week’s holiday is upon us, and we had planned a trip to Albany, however plans do change and so we are actually heading up to Perth first, to see the Lightscape Show in Kings Park.

Today we make our way to Pingelly, where we have booked a room in the newly re-opened Exchange Tavern. We will of course make a few stops to check for orchids. the first stop being in the Dragon Rocks Nature Reserve. Our plan here was to check some previously found orchids to see if we have timed their flowering. Unfortunately, we were a tad early, plus it was a very overcast day, so no sunshine to encourage the orchids to open. From the leaf structure and the spotted markings to the buds we believe them to be the Eastern Queen of Sheba (Thelymitra speciosa) which flowers from late June to September, over a range from the Stirling Range to Condingup.

**Typical habitat we found them growing in.**

We also found some Hare orchids (Leporella fimbriata) still flowering and a few past their prime greenhoods. They are most likely some Mallee banded greenhoods (Pterostylis arbuscula) due to their small stature.

**Short statured Mallee banded greenhood**

Time is getting away, so we move onward. We head west and make our next stop near the Pingaring Nature Reserve. We make our way up the track to the granite rock which is another one which is used as a water catchment. It was a nice walk however the only orchids found were some Hairy-stemmed snail orchids (Pterostylis setulosa) which is a common inland species. Still a new species for the day so not disappointed. This may prove a great location for later in the season.

**Petals and dorsal sepal fused to form hood over column.**

Nearly 2pm so again we move on. Still heading west, we decide to check out Jilakin Rock, which we have planned to do many times before but have never had the time. We pull into the bay on the roadside and as usual it looks pretty rundown and weedy, which has put us off before. This time though using Google Maps we note a track that heads around the rock nearer the lake. Here we come across an abandoned gravel/sand pit area, so we pull up and go exploring. First orchid found is another Hairy-stemmed snail orchid, with more of them found further afield as well.

This location though turns up more than just snail orchids. We find many Blue beard (Pheladenia deformis) flowering all over the location. These bright orchids are always a pleasure to find, as they always provide the chance of finding a white variety. No such luck this time though. Their season is from late May to October, and they range from the Murchison to Israelite Bay. They are also referred to as the Blue fairy orchid by some references.

Now for the hard part. Trying to identify the many wispy type of spider orchids found. Using the ‘Explore Your Area” function of Atlas of Living Australia website there are a few possibilities which does help to narrow it down. First up is the Chameleon orchid (Caladenia dimidia) which is a variably coloured orchid found flowering from July to early October, between Paynes Find and Scaddan.

Just thought I would post a video to show how the wind makes getting great photos of these small spider orchid very difficult.

Hold still please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Other orchids do not seem to fit the descriptions in my references so I will post some pics of them and please let me know your thoughts on the identification.

Just after 3pm so we move on as we need to get to Pingelly for our planned overnight stop at the Exchange Tavern. We enjoy a wonderful pub meal, play video games on a sit-down console in the TV room and settle in for a comfortable night’s sleep. A great finish to our first day.

19/08/2022 ….. Westonia to Roe Dam

Merredin Peak Reserve, Numerous days, Other Reserves, Road Trip, Western Australian Orchids

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.

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.

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.

Mural in Bruce Rock by local, Margaret Teasdale

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.

02/07/2022 ….. Solo visit to Neridup & Condingup locations

Condinup Reserve, Day Trip, Other Reserves, Western Australian Orchids

Well, the 2nd month of winter rolls around and I am home alone for the weekend. I only have the Ford so have to stick to decent roads and tracks on my orchid hunting adventures. I decide to head out East to see if anything new has started to bloom.

1st stop: Track off Old Smokey Road – Had to walk the track as it was not decent enough to tackle in the Ford. Firstly, I will mention the orchids found that had finished their season and the ones found yet to bloom. White bunny orchid (Eriochilus sp.) had finished, whilst the Mignonette orchid (Microtis sp.) was a remanent from last season. Next up Sun orchids (Thelymitra sp.) with leaves only currently growing are found.

The first orchids found flowering were the greenhoods. Possibly both the Dark banded greenhood (Pterostylis sanguinea) and Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata) were found, however with both having varying colours it is hard to distinguish. Some P. sanguinea are all green/white whilst rarely some P. vittata are found fawn coloured. The other orchid found was the Fawn snail orchid (Pterostylis parva) which also has fawn toning plus pointed leaves to its rosette.

2nd stop: Coolinup Road – More greenhoods are found flowering, possibly a mixture of P. sanguinea, P. vittata and Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula). Another snail orchid is also found flowering, however this time they appear to be the Brittle snail orchid (Pterostylis timothyi) due to it’s thinner, taller stature.

Also found were some Caladenia sp. leaves, Bird orchid rosettes and Mosquito orchids in bud, tempting another visit, later in the season.

3rd stop: Track off Fisheries Rd before Parmango Rd – This is a new location and not too much is found this time. I am lucky to stumble across a Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila) in flower. A lot of dumped rubbish in the area, which is terrible, however I did locate 3 old Cottees bottles, to add to our collection. I wandered into the dried-up lake area, which was almost devoid of any growth, just a bed of leaf litter. On the slow drive back along the track to Fisheries Road I did find some spent Hare orchids (Leporella fimbriata) still distinguishable.

4th stop: Under powerlines off Parmango Road – I revisit one of our newer locations and walk up to the gravelly area to see how the spiral leaf orchids are faring. Along the track and at the targeted patch I did stumble across some spent Hare orchids, Caladenia sp. leaves and the spiral leaves of a Thelymitra sp. A highlight of this patch was the couple of small Scented Autumn leek orchids (Prasophyllum sp. ‘Early’) found in flower.

Well, this certainly turned into a day of being too early for some orchids, late for others and only a few in flower. As the season progresses so will the numbers of orchids in flower increase. I look forward to a re-visit later on with Debbie in tow.

04/06/2022 & 06/06/2022 ….. Winter Weekend Camping at Anderson Rocks

Dragon Rocks NR, Lake Hurlstone NR, Nature Reserves, Road Trip, Weekend away, Western Australian Orchids

Saturday 04/06/2022

We awake to a crisp winters’ morning at the Chicken Ranch in Varley. After a leisurely breakfast, we break camp and head straight for Dempster Rock to look for orchids. Nothing in bloom found. Disappointed, we move on and stop at a new location for us, in the Lake Hurlstone Nature Reserve.

This location may prove fruitful in later stages of the season, as it has a few different habitats to check out. We did locate some orchids this time as well, so all is good. First up appears to be the Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula) due to its small size and colouring. Further specimens are found with more stem leaves, taller plants and more flowers, so some may be the Dark banded greenhood (Pterostylis sanguinea). I will post pics of all, so please assist with the identification if you can.

Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula)

Also found lots of spent White bunny orchids, with a lone one still identifiable as such. This one had a crinkled edged stem leaf, so I initially thought it to be the Crinkled-leafed bunny orchid (Eriochilus dilatatus subsp. undulatus) which flowers during April and May, hence why only spent flowers were found, except for this late flowering one of course. However, using Florabase, the only listed bunny orchid found in both the Shire of Kulin and the Shire of Kondinin is the Blunt-leaved bunny orchid (Eriochilus dilatatus subsp. brevifolius) which flower May and June and only have up to 3 flowers. The leaf is also crinkled-edged so I am happy with this identification. Seems subsp. undulatus has been cancelled in Florabase and the common name of Crinkled-leaved bunny orchid given to subsp. brevifolius. The name game is never ending with native orchids. Also found on the way back to the Triton was a nice specimen of the Dark banded greenhood.

Blunt-leaved bunny orchid (Eriochilus dilatatus subsp. brevifolius)

Leaving this new location, we head north to Hyden, where we enjoy an amazing hamburger for lunch. As Richard is running late, we make tracks for Anderson Rocks, our planned destination for this long-weekend.

During the weekend I would climb the rock and record the sounds of the frogs in the FrogID App and then attempt to upload my recordings. I received a reply from the Frog ID App on the 20/07/22 advising they had identified 2 species, so my uploads were successful. The species found were the Bleating Froglet (Crinia pseudinsignifera) and Crawling Toadlet (Pseudophryne guentheri).

Monday 06/06/2022

After a great long-weekend camping with Richard, Sandy and Noel at Anderson Rocks, it is time to travel home. As per usual we do not travel home in a straight line and try our best to take roads yet travelled. So, from Hyden we make our way to Allen Rocks Road, where we stop at an old rubbish dump it seems, as there is so much rubbish lying around. We found some old Gest cooldrink bottles and an old enamel pot to add to our collection. The only orchids found here were some yet to fully open shell orchids.

Next stop was on Dragon Rocks Road in the Dragon Rocks Nature Reserve. This roadside stop turned up some Dark banded greenhoods. Then further south on the Newdgate Road North at another roadside stop we only found some spent Pygmy orchids (Corunastylis fuscoviridis) which are also an early flowering orchid.

Dark banded greenhood (Pterostylis sanguinea)

Final stop for the day other than to fuel up in Lake King and a toilet break in Munglinup. Arrived back in Esperance around 6.15pm and had dinner at our sons’ house, before heading home to unpack. A great weekend but not so great on the orchid front.

04/07/2021 ….. North-eastern adventure

Burdett South NR, Day Trip, Esperance, Helms Arboretum, Mount Burdett NR, Nature Reserves, Western Australian Orchids

On a cold winters day, what better to do than go exploring for orchids!! We must be mad. With grey clouds and the possibility of rain, we head north to check out the northern boundary of Helms Arboretum (Mud Map SE 35). We wish to see how far the Southern Curly Locks (Thelymitra uliginosa) have progressed. We locate some of the spiral leaves but not in the same numbers as previous years, which is disappointing considering the great start to the season, weather wise. Another orchid found was a spent Scented autumn leek orchid (Prasophyllum Sp. ‘early’) which flower April to June, hence this orchid being finished for the season.

Spiral leaf
Spiral leaf can be up to 90mm in length
Spent Scented autumn leek orchid

Nothing else found so we move eastwards to Dempster Road via Gibson Road then turn into Wittenoom Road. Rather than check out the blue metal dump which is one of our regular haunts we move further north and check out the old gravel pit near Scaddan Road. First up growing in the pushed back road verge we find some banded greenhoods. As they vary in colour they may be different species. Other specimens are found further afield so I am confident the larger greenish ones are the Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata) whilst the smaller brownish ones are the Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula). Both flower during July and are shown as appearing in the Esperance region.

2 species side by side
Mallee banded greenhood
Slightly cupped lateral sepals
Variable in colour – Greenish-brown, reddish-brown or dark green
Up to 450mm in height
Light green, white banded flowers
Insect-like labellum flicks up when touched

Then a wonderful patch of snail orchids being watched by a large fungi is found. From the rosettes and colouring of the snail orchids I believe they are Brittle snail orchids (Pterostylis timothyi). These small guys flower from July to September over an easterly distribution including Esperance.

Fungi overlord
Fawn tinge to colouring
Many rosettes, few flowers
Up to only 150mm in height
Narrow-ended lateral sepals
Rosette of prominently veined, pointed leaves

We now move on further north and venture up a track that leads into Mount Burdett Nature Reserve. Further Brittle snail orchids are found or are they the similar Fawn snail orchids (Pterostylis parva) which are of smaller stature with shorter lateral sepals but fatter appearance.

Thin or bloated flower
Pointed leaves of rosette
Fawn or Brittle snail orchid??
2 stem leaves
lateral sepals 12-18mm or 10-17mm in length
In all stages of flowering

Whilst we are taking photos of the snail orchids another 5 cars drive past on the track, so we decide to turn around and head to Mt Burdett (Mud Map SE36) for a detailed search. We reach our parking spot at the base of the granite rock an immediately find some greenhoods. From the height of the plants and the number of dark coloured flowers I believe they are Dark banded greenhoods (Pterostylis sanguinea) which flower June to September over a large range from Mullewa to Toolinna Cove.

Grow up to 400mm in height
Insect like labellum
Labellum in un-triggered position
Labellum in triggered position – hidden in hood

Nearby found a lone Banded greenhood and then looking around some large snail orchids come into view. They are the Robust snail orchid (Pterostylis dilatata) which are distinctive, in that when flowering they lack a rosette.

Banded greenhood
Robust snail orchids
Clubbed lateral seapls
Standing up to 150mm in height

I think the next snail orchid found is definitely a Fawn snail orchid as it is short statured , has bloated flowers and the rosettes have blue-green pointed leaves. The snail orchids are sharing the bright green moss with another small orchid as well. The Pink bunny orchid (Eriochilus scaber subsp. scaber) flowers early July, so these are on time as they are just starting to open. These little orchids are unique in that their flowering and non-flowering leaves differ in appearance.

Fawn snail orchids have bloated flowers
Rosette of the Fawn snail orchid has blue-green pointed leaves
Fawn snail orchids have erect, thickish lateral sepals
Pink bunny orchids can reach 150mm in height apparently. (This one is only 15mm in height)
Light green, cupped leaf on flowering Pink bunny orchids
Dark green, flat leaves on non-flowering Pink bunny orchids
Four small Pink bunny orchids in this photo

Moving further up the rocky mount, we come across a patch of Mallee banded greenhoods which are similar to the Dark banded greenhoods but have less flowers and are shorter in stature.

Limited to 5 flowers per orchid
Variably coloured
Typical greenhood labellum

We finally make it up to the summit, so to speak. We are excited to find a nice patch of shell orchids in flower. The Green-veined shell orchid (Pterostylis scabra) are a common inland shell orchid flowering over a huge range, Kalbarri to Esperance, during the months of May to August. They grow in varied habitats of woodlands and shrublands to shallow soil pockets on granite outcrops. The later describes our location.

Can be found in large groups
Lateral sepals form a distinct V shape
Green and white striped flowers
Protruding, down-curved, long, thin labellum
Standing up to 200mm in height
Many more rosettes of non flowering orchids

Moving down the mount back to the Triton we come across more Fawn snail orchids. Nothing more so we move on in a south easterly direction this time.

Green and white striped flowers
Different colour to flower and rosette
Thickish lateral sepals
Pointed leaves to rosette
Fawn colour to hood provides “Common name”

So driving down Greens Road we notice a track leading into the Burdett South Nature Reserve. Quick check of Google Maps and we decide to check it out. It is quite overgrown so we end up walking mostly. Lucky find of a recognisable Hare orchid (Leporella fimbriata) as they finish their season in June.

End of season swelling to ovaries
Long ear like petals .. Maybe they keep growing as the orchid ages, as images in reference books show much shorter petals.

We come to a salt lake that provides a great backdrop for our obligatory “Selfie”, however the only other orchids found in flower where the good old Banded greenhood, plus a snail orchid with its hood eaten off. Rosette of stalked pointed leaves, leads me to name it the Brittle snail orchid.

Bright green colouring
Hairy insect-like labellum
Single flowered specimen
Hanging lateral sepals and labellum
Eaten snail orchid hood reveals the inside
Stalked, pointed leaves to Brittle snail orchid rosette

Well it’s now 3.45pm so we decide to walk back to the Triton for the drive home. It was a very cold day however we found some great orchids and enjoyed the fresh air.

WA Orchid Adventures

Come with me on my Orchid Adventures in Southern Western Austalia

Mallee