Very windy day with some rain. Feeling a bit unwell today, so spent the morning inside. Deb went off to her work at 2pm and I fell asleep in the Lazyboy. Was woken by some really strong winds. Decided then that I can’t waste the whole day, so went out to check on the location shared by Dana S to my post of the 19/7/2020 on my Facebook Page.
Pulling up alongside the road I venture on the south side and it is not long before I stumble across some bee orchids. Over the entire location I came across many bee orchids and they appear to be two of the locally recorded species. Smaller ones with only 2 or so basal leaves seem to be the Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementa) whilst the larger ones may be the Bee orchid (Diuris laxiflora).
Found many Lemon-scented sun orchids (Thelymitra antennifera) however no decent photos obtained as they were hardly open due to the cloudy day and the wind just defeated my attempts. The best are posted for recording purposes.
The Small mantis orchid(Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima) starts to appear all over the location. The profile photos are great in showing how up-swept the lateral sepals are plus how the tip of the labellum tucks under.
An unexpected find was a Red beak (Pyrorchis nigricans) in flower. No recent fires here so a pleasant surprise find. Also some Cowslip orchids (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) found south and north of the road.
Then near a drainage ditch on the north side of the road I find a selection of orchids in one small location. The most obvious was the Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)as there were 8 flowers in view. As I moved towards them I noticed a small Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) and whilst on my knees getting a shot I noticed the Short-sepaled spider orchids (Caladenia brevisura) hiding behind the enamel orchids.
With the light fading, wind still blowing and now being past 5pm I make tracks back home, happy in the knowledge that this new location had turned up 8 and possibly 9 orchid species.
After spending a wonderful weekend with good friends, Warren and Tammy in Hopetoun, we venture north to Ravensthorpe as they are having their annual Wildflower Show, which we have not been to in the 20 years we have lived in Esperance.
The display of wildflowers in the shire hall was amazing so we took a few pics of the orchids they had on display. We then sat down for a cuppa, with scones, jam and cream before making our way to the local lolly shop, Yummylicious Candy Shack for an icecream. No ginger this time though 🙁 so I chose macadamia then also purchased a small bag of mixed lollies. It is here we say goodbye to our friends as they head home to Esperance, as we have orchids to find.
So where do we go first, given we are already 185km east of home. You guessed it, another 15kms east to Kukenarup Memorial. As the picnic shelter is already occupied we head straight for the walk trail and immediately find some Lemon-scented sun orchids (Thelymitra antennifera)in bloom. These are by far the most widespread of the yellow sun orchids, as they occur on a line from Shark Bay to Israelite Bay and everywhere south of that line. The dark column lobes are a distinctive feature which also alludes to the Latin name: antennae, to bear .
Very close by another bright orchid of a different colour catches our eye. The Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis) glistens in the bright sunshine.
Deb discovers a blue orchid and initially thought it would be a Blue beard however on closer inspection it was an orchid not found at this location before, which is exciting. It is a Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata) which is quite widespread, ranging from Israelite Bay to Kalbarri.
I had just finished saying to Deb how it would be nice to find the Dragon orchids that were at the Wildflower Show, when what do we spy but a Common dragon orchid (Caladenia barbarossa) swaying in the breeze.
Right next door to the lone Dragon orchid we also find a lone Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens susp. gracillima) which is smaller than the related Fringed mantis orchid, which can also be found around Ravensthorpe. The labellum calli extend onto the red tip of the labellum, which is another distinguishing feature when comparing the two.
Making our way back to the walk track, as we have detoured a bit towards the Hwy, we come across another type of orchid. This little one appears to be the Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura) due to the shortly clubbed later sepals and south-easterly location. The only other possibility is the Purple-veined spider orchid, which is pictured earlier at the wildflower Show, and the length of the sepals is definitely a distinctive feature of both types.
Towards the end of the walk trail we discover many more Lemon-scented sun orchids growing under the protection of bushes and also out on the granite growing in the Resurrection bushes.
Right at the end of the trail some Frog greenhoods (Pterostlyis sargentii) are found growing in the Resurrection bushes as well. These are a common inland greenhood growing between Northampton and Grasspatch.
We decide to go down south of the picnic shelter to see if we can locate the Red beaks we had found on previous years. Nothing at all found other than a small spent spider orchid on the edge of a track. We decide to walk along this track which heads west, toward the Phillips River. We are expanding this location as we have never ventured along this track before.
Interestingly, the first orchid found is the common Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava sp. flava) which is unusual in that no others have been found today. One flower, 3 images.
Further along the track are some more Dragon and Purple enamel orchids.
Then on the south side of the track we stumble across some scattered Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) growing in the white sand. An unusual find, given the area does not appear to have been burnt recently.
Then hiding under a bush is the smallest Blue china orchid I had ever seen. Actually looking at the labellum it appears to be a Granite china orchid (Cyanicula nikulinskyae) as it is also much paler than the typical Blue china orchid which was found earlier today.
After walking this track for about 30mins it seemed to go on forever, so we turned north to make our way back to the picnic area. Pushing up a rise we find many more Small mantis orchids as well as many Jug orchids (Petrostylis recurva), however most were finished for the season, though we took a photo just as a record.
We have now returned close to the Hwy so head west towards the picnic area. Not much found until Deb excitedly comes across a beautiful leek orchid. I believe it to be the Frilled leek orchid (Prasophyllum sargentii) which grows in sandy soils from Kalbarri to Israelite Bay during August to October.
We make it back to the picnic shelter and right there in the shade of the taller shrubs is a patch of Common dragon orchids. Photos taken but no decent ones so will not post any, however the short video seems decent enough to post.
Needing food we head off east past Ravensthorpe and onto Munglinup Roadhouse to get another burger, as they were awesome last time. Much busier today so the wait will be longer, so Deb suggests I go exploring nearby for any orchids.
Great idea my wonderful wife had. I ventured over the road to the east and immediately spied yellow flowers that looked promising. The bright and beautiful Cowslips are flowering as are the Lemon-scented sun orchids. Also a red coloured Small mantis orchid and the usual greener ones are found together with some Purple enamel orchids.
To top off this location I found three different species of white spider orchids. First up is the Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians), followed by an Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda susp. crassa) then finally a small orchid I cannot Identify. Any help with this is appreciated.
Back to the roadhouse I go and we enjoy eating the awesome burgers before we head off to our next location. We plan to visit the spot on Boydell Road where we had seen possible hammer orchid leaves on a previous visit. I am driving and we go past the spot and travel some 20 kms before realising. We turn around and locate our marker and pull into a farmers gate leeway as we are only in the Ford, so no 4WD capability to park off the road.
Whilst we start our search on the north of the road the farmer comes to check on what we are up to. They check our car, drive up and down the road a bit then obviously decide we are not a threat and leave us be. Unfortunately the leaves we planned to check out had not produced any flowers and were dying off, however we did locate some other orchids. First up was a beautiful pair of Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana) which occur from Augusta to Cape Arid during September and October. The long clubbed sections of the sepals and having clubbed petals are distinguishing features. Other specimens are also found upon further searching.
Other orchids were found as well. Red beaks were found, which confirms rare individuals will flower without a need for a recent bushfire. Purple enamel orchids and Dancing spider orchids (Caladenia discoidea) round off the day. A funky name however, it is derived from the Latin discoideus alluding to the rounded shape of the labellum.
It is now just after 5pm so we had better make tracks for home. As we are closer to the Cascade Road intersection than we first thought we decide to take it back down to the hwy as it is a sealed road.
A great day orchid hunting, to finish off a great weekend. Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show provided us with the nudge to explore the area and we were rewarded with at least 16 different orchid species.
After a wonderful night at our son’s place it is time to head off on the final day of our road trip. Leaving Ravensthorpe we make our way to Mt Desmond lookout, off Elverdton Road. Growing alongside the newly grader road to the lookout, were some small Western tiny blue orchids (Cyanicula aperta). Felt lucky to find them as the roadworks had cleared the places we had found orchids on previous visits. These little orchids are found from Dumbleyung to Mt Ragged during the period August to early-October. Also found closer to Elverdton Road was a Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) which is a common orchid, found flowering between Geraldton and Israelite Bay during August through October.
Moving further east, we visit another of our favourite spots, Mills Road near Munglinup. Deb finds the first of many orchids found in this location. The 4 orchids are hybrids of the Caladenia sp. Unable to positively ID so will just post some photos. I think Caladenia radialis or Caladenia brevisura may one of the parents. Please assist with ID if you can.
Found very close-by are some Zebra orchids (Caladenia cairnsiana). These small orchids flower from August to early-November in a southerly range from Lancelin to Esperance.
Intermixed with the Zebra orchids was a Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura) which adds to the possibility that it is a parent of the hybrid orchids found earlier. These orchids are found between Ravensthorpe and Israelite Bay during the months of August and September.
After further exploration a sole green spider orchid was discovered. However many more were found after further searching. The Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima) is as the name suggests, smaller than the related Fringed mantis orchid, we found earlier in the road trip. Flowering season is August to early-October and the Small mantis orchid is found between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay,
Another spider orchid is found, this time from the filamentosa complex. The Cream spider orchid (Caladenia horistes) flowers from August to early-October between Fitzgerald River National Park and Balladonia. The Cream spider orchid is also listed as having rare hybrids with the short-sepaled spider orchid, so it may be another parent of the previously mentioned hybrids found at this site.
A single spider orchid from the same complex, but another species is found. This time the smaller Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila) is found. Smaller labellum, thinner sepals and whiter colouring provide me with this identification.
The final orchid found in this location is the small Western tiny blue orchid.
As it is only mid-morning we decide to visit Stokes National Park, before finally heading for home. Upon arriving at the campground we immediately spy some king spider orchids. One of them is a bit worse for wear with his labellum eaten out. Non damaged specimens found with variations in colour, from bright red to pale green so identifying these will be interesting, as both the Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora) and Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana) occur in this location and they are difficult to tell apart. They may also hybridise with each other, so ID will not be attempted at this time. Lots of photos below to show my dilemma.
Well we thought there were lots of king spider orchids, but there is also as many Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia), which flower from August to early-November between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay. Here they range in size and colour, which just adds to the thrill of finding so many.
Some Banded greenhoods (Pterostylis vittata) were also found, whilst pushing into the scrub to grab photos of the Pink fairies. Moving on, we leave the campground and drive back towards the intersection to the day area,where we had previously found orchids. We were not disappointed as we find a few Lemon-scented sun orchids (Thelymitra antennifera)in flower. These are widespread sun orchids found from Shark Bay to Israelite Bay during the months July through October.
Also found at this corner is the every popular Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) which is also a widespread orchid with a long flowering period. These ones were a bit unusual as they had white tips to the petals. Usually solid yellow with markings.
Final orchid found for the day was a unique spider orchid, which we last found at Helms Arboretum a few years back. A single Grass-leafed spider orchid (Caladenia graminifolia) is found growing in the roadside drain under the protection of overhanging banksia bushes. Found between Mt Manypeaks and Israelite Bay during August and September this orchid self pollinates so is in flower for only a few days at the most,so we are very lucky to have found one in flower.
One hour from home and nearly noon so we decide to make tracks, so we can have lunch in our own home. Mixed emotions as we remember the last 2 weeks during this last hour of our 2019 Road Trip.
The first week did not go to plan however we made up for it by visiting Margaret River and tasting a few wines. Then we had a great time catching up with friends from our Rural youth days before our 2nd week, which did not include the planned visit to Charles Darwin Reserve, however we discovered some great new un-planned locations. A special catch up with my cousin Mary-lou that included meeting the eldest cousin Ian for the first time. Only took 55 years.
The major purpose of our road trip, other than having fun getting out in the great Western Australian outdoors, is the discovery of our very special terrestrial orchids, most of which are endemic to WA. On this note we located 70 species/sub species of orchids from 10 genera, with multiple hybrids and hypochromic variants. Refer this post for their details. 2019 Road Trip – Orchids Found
So privileged to witness the natural beauty of our amazing little corner of the world!!!!!!
Last night we packed up the Triton and camper and made our way over to Ravensthorpe where we stayed the night with our son, Tim, in his small rental. This was to put us 2 hrs ahead so the drive to Albany would not have to be so rushed. Little did we know that Albany was not to be our destination as planned.
Leaving at a leisurely 9.00am from Tim’s place we made our first stop at the Ravensthorpe silo’s, which have been painted as large banksia trees with their associated wildlife. We have driven past, but never stopped over the years, so we actually took the time to stop and appreciate them this once.
Leaving our overnight stay
Ravensthorpe grain silo’s
Just east of Ravensthorpe is one of our favourite stops. Situated in the Cocanarup Timber Reserve , Kukenarup Memorial provides a 250m walk trail which always turns up an orchid or two. Today is no exception. Just before the picnic shelter, the unique Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea) is our first find,of the trip and this individual is covered in dew. These orchids flower August to October from Kalbarri to Israelite Bay.
Dancing spider orchid
Dancing spider orchid
Nothing more found close to the picnic shelter so we head off along the walk trail. First up we find some Blue beards (Pheladenia deformis) which are found over a vast area from the Murchison River to Israelite Bay during a long flowering period, May to October.
Blue beards
Blue beards
Next up are the small Frog greenhoods (Pterostylis sargentii) which flower July to October in an area between Northampton and Grasspatch. Compared to the other greenhoods these orchids have very thin stem leaves.
Frog greenhood
Frog greenhood.
The the first of many donkey orchids is found. They have little markings to them and based on location could be one of three possible species. Based on the lack of colouring I will name these ones the Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa) which are found between York, Tenterden and Ravensthorpe during the months July through September.
Western wheatbelt donkey orchid
Western wheatbelt donkey orchid
Western wheatbelt donkey orchid
Also found were the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva)which is found from Geraldton to Israelite Bay during the months August through October. Other common names for this orchid are Re-curved shell orchid, Antelope orchid and Bull orchid.
Jug orchid
Jug orchid
We are then lucky enough to find a nice white spider orchid in flower. This orchid also has an orchid spider hiding on it. The flower itself was not large so I will be naming this specimen the Southern white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. australora) which is found between Fitzgerald River National Park and Millar’s Point during the months of September and October. We are 1 week from September so am happy with the fact it is still August.
Southern white spider orchid
Southern white spider orchid
Southern white spider orchid with spider
Time to move on, so we head west towards Jerramungup. Whilst driving we hear from Richard. He is unwell, so will vist the doctor and rest up a day to see if he will make the trip at all. We no longer need to get to Albany by 1pm so we decide to now take it more slowly and check out some other areas. Therefore our next stop is a new location on the corner of Quiss Road and South coast Hwy (Mud Map SE 26) We could not find Mud Map SE27 though which should have been on the highway just before Quiss Road. . Parking off Quiss Rd we walk along a fire break and immediately spy a Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta) which also flower August to October however only in a smaller range from Dumbleyung to Mt Ragged. Also found nearby was another Jug orchid.
Western tiny blue orchid
Jug orchid
Next we find some small donkey orchids which appear different to the ones found near Ravensthorpe. The labellum is broader and the lateral sepals are not crossed. However some others found have crossed lateral sepals so I believe them to be more Western wheatbelt donkey orchids. Then another new orchid for the trip appears. The Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) is found between Paynes Find and Israelite Bay during August and September.
Western wheatbelt donkey orchid
Sugar orchid
Then a very colourful snail orchid is found. From the length of the lateral sepals, number of stem leaves and the shape of the rosette leaves I will be naming these the Brittle snail orchid (Pterostylis timothyi) which flower July to September in a range from Lake Cronin to Esperance.
Brittle snail orchid
Brittle snail orchid rosette
Brittle snail orchid
Brittle snail orchid – 2 stem leaves
The further we searched the more Western tiny blue orchids, Sugar orchids, Jug orchids and Brittle snail orchids were found. Then a patch of spent greenhoods was found, before a nice in flower specimen was found . Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata) which have a long flowering period of April to September within a range from Perth to Balladonia.
Western tiny blue orchids
Western tiny blue orchids en masse
Sugar orchids
Sugar orchids – twin flowers
Jug orchid
Brittle snail orchids
Banded greenhoods
Banded greenhood ?
11.30am so we had better move on. Plan to stop in Jerramungup to grab some lunch, however the cafe had closed it’s kitchen 5 mins before we got there. We cross the road to the supermarket and grab some supplies for tonight’s camp and then move on towards Ongerup. We decide to grab a bite to eat at the Yongergnow Australian Malleefowl Centre. So glad we did as the meal was awesome and very well priced. As we had previously found orchids along Jaekel Street we again stop just before the Gnowangerup-Jerramungup Road. On the left road verge is a cluster of Cowslip orchids (Caladenia flava subsp.flava) which flower over 6mths from July to December in a vast range from Geraldton to Israelite Bay.
Cowslip orchids
Cowslip orchid
Whilst I’m busy taking photos of the cowslips, Debbie has skirted further into the scrub in her search. She calls out that she has found a different spider orchid, so I push my way towards her. However on my way in I stumble across a donkey orchid. This one appears to be the Green Range donkey orchid (Diuris littoralis) which is found flowering from July to September in a coastal, near coastal range from Denmark to Esperance. The darker markings set them apart from the Western wheatbelt donkey orchid which is much paler.
Green Range donkey orchid
Green Range donkey orchid profile
Then I arrive at Debbie’s spider orchid. Yes it is a new species for this trip. Debbie has found the Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) which flowers during the months August to October in a range from Northampton to Jerramungup. It is quite distinctive with its usually smooth-margined labellum and dense band of calli.
Drooping spider orchid
Drooping spider orchid.
Drooping spider orchid
Drooping spider orchid.
Further afield we find some sugar orchids and large numbers of donkey orchids. Deb heads back to the Triton whilst I make my way to the Gnowangerup – Jerramungup Road .
Sugar orchids
Sugar orchid
Donkey orchids
Parking the Triton on the Gnowangerup – Jerramungup Road , Deb joins me to check a patch where more donkeys orchids can be seen. There I come across a poor green spider orchid that had been eaten by insects. Thinking this may be the only one found , I grab a photo. Then close by more green spider orchids are found. They are Fringed mantis orchids (Caladenia falcata) which flower between Wongan Hills and Jerramungup during the months August to October.
Eaten – Fringed mantis orchid
Fringed mantis orchid – Full plant shot
Fringed mantis orchid
Fringed mantis orchid
Also found around the green spider orchids were many more donkey, cowslip, sugar and drooping spider orchids.
Sugar orchid
Green Range donkey orchid
Fringed mantis orchids in a field of donkeys
Drooping spider orchids
Myself with a cluster of cowslips
It’s nearly 2pm so we had better keep moving. We drive through Gnowangerup and onto Tambellup. From here we head south along the Great Southern Highway and pull into Wansbrough Nature Reserve looking for a possible overnight stop. Coincidentally this is also a Mud Map location. (Mud Map SC 13) On the drive into the reserve we spy a white spider orchid and more donkey orchids. The only place to set up camp was way to close to the highway, so we turned around and on the way out took some photos of the orchids found. From the location I feel the donkey orchids are Western wheatbelt donkey orchids and the white spider orchids are Stark white spider orchids (Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens) which flowers August to October in a range from Moora to Esperance.
Western wheatbelt donkey orchid
Stark white spider orchid
Stark white spider orchid.
Stark white spider orchid
Also found were some Jug orchids and some very dark coloured donkey orchids. Unsure if they are just a dark variant or another species. I will leave them un-named for now.
Jug orchid
Diuris sp.
Hopping back in the Triton we are nearly flown away by the number of mosquitoes that had entered the cab. Definitely not a camping spot. So now where will we go? Quickly checking the maps we settle on Nunijup Lake (Mud Map SC 20) which is west south west of Tenterden and about 50kms away. We arrive at the lake and park up on the deserted tennis courts between the clubhouse and toilets. Also nearby is an old campfire pit. After setting up the camper we head off into the bush looking for wood. It is on this search that I come across some more dark donkey orchids. However these ones appear to be the Purple pansy orchid (Diuris longifolia) which flower September to December between Albany and Perth. The uniformity to the colour of the dorsal sepal and lateral lobes of the labellum, plus the hanging lateral sepals, lead me to this classification.
Purple pansy orchid
Purple pansy orchid. Profile shot
More pansy orchids are found along a track to a fallen tree, where I see a spider orchid, whilst picking up broken branches for the fire. The distinct colouring and location provide easy identification. This is the Tenterden yellow spider orchid (Caladenia straminichila)which is found from the Porongurup Range to Manjimup in the months August to October. I race back to camp to advise Debbie of my find. We both go back and then look farther afield. Many more spider orchids are found, some in clumps.
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.
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 isa 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.
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 amrewarded with more Western wispy spider orchids, Yellow granite donkey orchids, Shy greenhoods , Hairy-stemmed snail orchids and Sigmoid spider orchids.
Western wispy spider orchid
Hairy-stemmed snail orchid
Western wispy spider oprchids
Sigmoid spider orchid
Western wispy spider orchids
Shy greenhood
Western wispy spider orchid
Yellow granite donkey orchid
Western wispy spider orchid
Sigmoid spider orchids
Shy greenhood
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.
After breakfast we go for a more leisurely search around our campsite for any orchids we may have missed in our late search yesterday. Ant orchid (Caladenia roei), Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata), Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) were again located as was one Fringed mantis orchid (Caladenia falcata) with a dangling labellum. Also found was a yet to open Thelymitra species.
No hint as to the type
Smooth margined labellum
Prominently tri-lobed labellum
Dangling labellum
Yellow, red marked flowers
We then hurried back to camp, packed up a headed back along the track we drove down late yesterday afternoon. First up were some Donkey orchids, which due to the location they must be Western wheatbelt donkey orchids (Diuris brachyscapa).
Short, broad dorsal sepal
Broad spreading lateral lobes to the labellum
Top down view
Further along we find more Cowslip orchids plus better specimens of the Fringed mantis orchid.
Shorter lateral sepals
Group with long lateral sepals
Colourful trio
No right way up to the photo, taken looking directly down onto the flowers
Red-tipped labellum, with long comb like fringe segments
Comb-like fringe segments to the smooth labellum
Spreading petals
Large green yellow and red flowers
Upswept, narrowly-clubbed lateral sepals
And finally after a very long spell we finally find another Pterostylis specimen, the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva).
Looking into the Jug
The glistening flower
Showing the colour variations
Our final stop along the bush track was at a small granite outcrop, where we found some Lemon-scented sun orchids (Thelymitra antennifera) and some yet to flower Elbow orchids (Spiculaea ciliata)
Antennae like labellum appendeges
Broad, spreading petals and sepals
Getting close to flowering
Leaf is shrivelled at time of flowering
We leave Tutanning N. R. and head on down to Wickepin, where we have a yummy lunch, before heading over to visit Toolibin N. R.. On the track in we spy many Fringe mantis orchids, some with two flowers per stem.
1 – 2 reclining flowers
Red tipped labellum
Size comparison of the entire plant. Another twin header
Dorsal sepal horizontal basally, the curved upwards and forward
Size comparison to my fingers
Moderately long, indistinct clubs on the sepals
Looking top down shows how reclined the flowers are. Twins on one stem
The lateral sepals up curved to almost vertical
Twin headers were common at Toolibin Lake N.R.
We decided to take a walk alongside the track to see what other orchids may be around. We came across Cowslip orchids, Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea) and Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia).
Yellow flower with red markings
Small, squat flowers
Very broad labellum, with 4 – 6 rows of short, thick, crowded calli
Can have up to 4 flowers per plant
Horizontally spreading petals and lateral sepals
Prominently tri-lobed labellum
Stiffly spreading, petals and sepals
Up to 4 flowers per orchid
We then drove to the parking area and attempted the lake walk, however it was closed due to flooding from recent heavy rain, which had washed away some of the infrastructure. I decided to walk back along the track and Deb drove the Triton, which proved fortuitous as I found some Ant orchids and Deb found some spider orchids.
Pale yellow to yellowish-green with variable reddish stripes.
Lateral sepals tapering to thickened tips rather than a narrow tail before the clubs
Smooth-margined, greenish-yellow, red tipped labellum
This one lacks the usual red colouring but the calli give it away
Easily distinguishable due to the short, thick, rounded, glossy black calli
Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) is the obvious specie as it has a smooth margined labellum with distinctive striping.
Cream coloured, red-striped labellum
Reddish-brown to dark brown tails to petals and sepals
Drooping petals and lateral sepals
Red-striped smooth-margined labellum
Up to 2 red and cream flowers
Final find before hitting the Wickepin-Harrismith Rd is a great Pink fairy twin.
120 – 450mm high
Twin fairy
As soon as we got on the Wickepin-Harrismith Road we took a track near Dulbining Lake, that seemed to run adjacent to the road and drove along in 1st gear with our heads hanging out the window looking. Some spider orchids are seen on the left hand side of the track, so we alight from the Triton to check them out. They appear to be Common spider orchid (Caladenia vulgata).
Index finger a bottom of photo for size comparison
Red striped labellum
Narrow, usually pendulous petals and lateral sepals
Moving slowly along this track we find many other orchids, starting with Cowslip orchids, Fringed mantis orchid and Pink candy orchids (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea).
Erect flowers
Deformed lateral sepal on both flowers
Bright yellow variation
3 flowers in close proximity
Size comparison to index finger
Up to 2 green, yellow and red flowers
Location gives up name not the colouring
Pale pink colouring
Short, spreading petals and lateral sepals
Labellum with short fringe segments and four or more rows of calli
Twin flowers
Deep pink colouring
Brighter pink colouring
Then we find what we initially thought were more Ant orchids. However on closer inspection we have found Purple-veined spider orchid (Caladenia doutchiae) which flowers August to October between Mullewa and Ravensthorpe. In the middle of all these is a lone Ant orchid.
Final orchids found before getting back on the sealed road were what appeared at first to be Common spider orchids. However the flowers had much broader labellum’s and if they were fully unfurled, long petals and sepals. I am going to name these Pendant spider orchid (Caladenia pendens subsp. pendens) which flower August to early October in a range from Wongan Hills to Walpole.
Once fully unfurled the petals and sepals will be long and pendulous
2 rows of white, sometimes pale-red-tipped calli
Nearly fully unfurled
Relatively broad, red-striped labellum with serrate to dentate fringe segemnts
Broad labellum
Up to 3 flowers per stem
Travelling west we arrive at Harrismith and as the weather was looking like rain we decide to book a room rather than risk getting our canvas camper wet. Rather than a room we take the donger which has its own shower and toilet. Was really cheap and rough but was sufficient for 1 night. After unpacking into the bedroom we decide to take a drive around the self drive wildflower tour. Our first orchids were more Fringed mantis orchids. (Mud Map SE 10)
Common wheatbelt orchid
Greenish-yellow, red tipped labellum
Lateral sepals are narrowly clubbed
Prominently up-swept lateral sepals
Spreading petals
Also found were Western wheatbelt donkey orchids, Sugar orchid and Jug orchids.
Short, broad dorsal sepal
Spreading petals and sepals
Dark green, fawn and white flowers
Back just before sunset, so we have a shower and get changed into fresh clothes, then make our way over to the Oasis Hotel for a meal, game of pool and a few drinks to celebrate finding 15 different orchids.
After a great night catching up around the camp fire we wake to a beautiful spring morning. After breakfast we pack up camp then go for a wander around our campsite where we come across a few Ant orchids (Caladenia roei). Then we walk back towards Coarin Rock, which Richard and I climbed late afternoon yesterday, to show Deb the donkey orchids we found. However before this a fellow camper directs our attention to a lone spider orchid. NEW FIND – It appears to be a Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) as the petals and both lateral and dorsal sepals all droop and the labellum is smooth margined. This orchid flowers August to early December and range from Northampton to Jerramungup.
Smooth-margined labellum
Great little nest of ants
Drooping petals and sepals, both dorsal and lateral
Prominently red-striped, shortly-fringed or smooth-margined labellum
Two dense bands of red or cream calli
Past the ablutions on the track to the rock we find the patch with many Western wheatbelt donkey orchids (Diuris sp. ‘western wheatbelt’)and then backtrack to the Tritons for our drive to Kokerbin hill.
Twins
Great herd of donkeys
Kokerbin Hill / Kokerbin Rock is claimed to be the third largest monolith in Australia, so was a definite stop. We took a walk around the northern face to Devils Marbles and found some Sugar orchids (Ericksonella saccharata), Ant orchids, Donkey orchids and a lone Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis sp ‘inland’)
Petals and lateral sepals form crucifix
Short, spreading petals and sepals
Green and white flower 10-20mm long
Rounded to elongated petals
Time to head north so we make tracks to Kellerberrin and have lunch at the lookout. A quick check around located more Western wheatbelt donkey orchids and other donkey orchids I cannot identify plus some Lemon-scented sun orchids (Thelymitra antennifera).
Brighter yellow with purple markings
Pale yellow flowers
Species name “antennifera” – to bear antennae
Time is slipping away so we head further north and pulled over to an area of woodland on the off chance of finding some orchids. The area was signposted Forsyth Woodland and it proved to be great off chance location. Deb, Richard and myself all head off in different directions to see who would find the first orchids. Deb won by finding some Blood spider orchids (Caladenia filifera). I am confident with their identification, this time. NEW FIND
Small blood-red labellum with serrate to dentate fringe segments and 2 rows of red calli
Uniformly blood-red flowers
Blood-red flowers 30 to 50mm across
Long pendulous petals and lateral sepals
Next up Deb comes across a small Mottled donkey orchid (Diuris suffusa) which flowers late August to late September in the shires of Trayning, Wyalkatchem, Koorda and Mount Marshall. NEW FIND I find a lone Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta) and Deb finds a lone Fringed mantis orchid (Caladenia falcata).
Often reflexed petals, a broad reflexed dorsal sepal, narrow, reflexed, crossed lateral sepals
Short spreading petals and sepals
Single, erect, hairy leaf 100 to 200 mm long by 5 to 15 mm wide
Further Donkey orchids and Pink candy orchids groupings were found followed by a grouping of Ant orchids and a sole Sugar orchid.
Crucifix shape adopted by the petals and lateral sepals
Small flowered donkey orchid 200 to 350 mm high
Found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay
Up to 6 cream to pale yellow , brown marked flowers.
Short spreading petals and lateral sepals.
Widespread, clumping orchid
Single, erect, hairy leaf and up to 3 greenish-yellow and red flowers
Many more Fringed mantis orchids in better shape than the first were found as was a patch of very tall Hairy-stemmed snail orchids.
50 to 150 mm high with a rosette of leaves 20 – 50 mm across
United dorsal sepal and petals forms a hood over the column, erect, narrow-ended lateral sepals
Single, erect, hairy leaf 100 – 200 mm long by 5 – 15 mm wide
Green and white flower 10 – 20 mm long by 5 – 8 mm across
Greenish-yellow, red-tipped labellum with 4 or more rows of deep red calli.
Narrow petals and up-swept, narrowly-clubbed lateral sepals
So Forsyth Woodland proved a very fruitful stop with 7 orchid species found. Sunset is looming and we have yet to settle on where to camp overnight. Our first choice, Durokoppin Nature Reserve was not suitable, so we headed north, passing through Trayning and made tracks for Marshall Rocks near Bencubbin. This was a great spot with only one other camper in residence, so we set camp for the night. I decide to quickly check the rock out for any orchids and only find some Hairy-stemmed snail orchids, as the rock and surrounding area was very weedy.
After a quick breakfast and a long hot shower we make up the thermos and head off to fuel up, then make tracks for the North Wagin Nature Reserve, our first planned stop of the day. Just off the road, on the track chosen to push into the reserve, I spy a group of Jug orchids (Pterostylis recurva) which we will check out on the way back. We park the Triton and camper near a dam and head out on foot to check out this new location. First find is the Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata), quickly followed by Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris sp. ‘western wheatbelt’).
Green and white banded flowers, 8 to 10 mm across
Mostly found east of the Albany Hwy. Between York, Tenterden and Ravensthorpe
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Many donkey orchids were found and mixed in with these we found some Little pink fairy orchids (Caladenia reptans subsp. reptans) distinguished by their leaf having a red coloured underside. Another common orchid found here was the Fringed mantis orchid (Caladenia falcata) which competed with the donkey orchid to be the most common orchid in this location. As planned we took pictures of the Jug orchids as we made tracks for our next location.
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Short spreading petals and sepals with a prominently tri-lobed labellum
Greenish-yellow, red tipped labellum with comb-like fringe segments
Down curved lateral sepals
Looking into the jug of the aptly named orchid
Tow to three basal leaves with up to four flowers per stem
View looking down into the labellum
Piesseville was our next location and we finally found flowering orchids, after other visits turned up leaves and buds only. As with the Wagin location the Fringed mantis orchid was very common, as were the Sugar orchids (Ericksonella saccharata), however the later were restricted to a few metres in from the road. Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) was also plentiful, but further into the bush.
Size comparison with my index finger
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Short, stiffly spreading petals and sepals
The first spider orchid found is a Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia) and nearby a reddish version of the same flower.A very different spider orchid is then found. The Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea). Unlike previous specimens found this season near Esperance,this one finally looks like the ones in the books.
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Closer shot of the small labellum
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Small, pale white or pale yellow, red-striped labellum
Long, fine fringe segments and dark purplish-black calli
Short, horizontally spreading petals and lateral sepals
In the northerly section of the location we find some Western wheatbelt donkey orchids and in the swampy section I find some Blue beards (Pheladenia deformis) of varying shades. I track down Deb who has crossed to the other side of the road and took her back to where the Blue beards were located.
Elongated petals, a short broad, dorsal sepal
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One (rarely two) blue or more rarely white, flowers 20 – 30 mm across
Narrow, upright labellum with short fringe segments and a dense mass of calli
On the way back to the Blue beards more spider orchids were found. Chameleon spider orchid, Crimson spider orchid (Caladenia footeana) which flowers July to early October between Cranbrook and Binnu and Chapmans spider orchid (Caladenia chapmanii) which flowers September to mid-October between Boyup Brook, Kojonup and Northam, all within a few metres of each other.
Spreading petals and lateral sepals
Contrast of colours
Yellow, cream or red-pink flowers
Lateral sepals yet to be released
Prominently red-striped labellum with serrate to dentate fringe segments
Spreading petals and lateral sepals of uniform colour
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Large, white, red-striped labellum with serrate to dentate fringe segments and two rows of white or red-tipped calli
Then an OMG moment, when Deb spies an all red spider orchid. Appears to be Blood spider orchid (Caladenia filifera) NEW FIND!!!! These are found between Tenterden and Wongan Hills and flower August to early October. Not 100% certain as it was not clumping, but single flowers. Edit: After locating Blood spider orchids at Forsyth Woodland this one appears to be a red variant of another species.
Small blood-red labellum with serrate to dentate fringe segments and tow rows of red calli
Uniformly blood red flowers
Other orchids found at this location were Jug orchids and Banded greenhoods.
We moved on and called into Narrogin to buy some supplies and an extra gas cartridge for the shower unit. We then drove north-east and stopped off at North Yilliminning Nature Reserve for lunch and checked out this new location. Not far into our search and we were bombarded with yellow from so many Cowslip orchids. Various shapes, patterns and sizes with some having very long lateral sepals.
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Nice family herd of Cowslips
Grouping with long sepals. Deb’s hands for size comparison
Another herd of Cowslips with redder markings
Next orchid found was the small Sugar orchid followed closely with some Donkey orchids. Most likely, Western wheatbelt donkey orchids. Also found were some Banded greenhoods
Up to 4 flowers
Last two flowers for this orchid
Horizontally held petals and lateral sepals.
A very unusual colour catches Deb’s eye as she has found a Hybrid orchid. A Spectacular spider orchid (Caladenia x spectabilis) which is a hybrid formed by a Cowslip and Pink fairy cross pollinating. Further colour variations were found. However to muddy the waters, the Little pink fairy orchid is found which may be a parent of the hybrids, in which case the orchid is unnamed and referred to as (Caladenia flava x C. reptans). For now I will leave the judgement open.
First hybrid found
3rd colour variation. Brightest of the bunch
Another variation in colour
Dorsal sepals have both been eaten.
A 2nd colour variation
Single, relatively broad, hairy leaf 40 – 80 mm long by 8 – 10 mm wide
These little beauties may be the parents of the Hybrids found nearby
Edit: 29/10/2017 – From further investigations it appears all Hybrids found were Spectacular spider orchids due to the longer lateral sepals. Blooms August to October and found from Kalbarri to Esperance
Final orchids found were a sole Hairy stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis sp. ‘inland’) and some further Jug orchids.
Green and white flower 10-20mm long and 3-10mm across
Hairy flower stem
Dark green, fawn and white flowers
Narrow-ended prominently recurved lateral sepals which are joined at the base
Quick toilet stop in Wickepin, which was a very neat little town with a museum for Albert Facey, who is famous for his autobiography “A Fortunate Life”. We make one final stop, before catching up with Richard, at Malyalling Nature Reserve. Along the road that dissects the N.R. I spot some Ant orchids (Caladenia roei) which flower August to October between Eurardy Station and Ravensthorpe, and when taking photos also noticed Fringed mantis orchids nearby.
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Upswept lateral sepals
Crucifix shape adopted by the petals and lateral sepals
Some Donkey orchids were also found and at the Eastern boundary of the N.R. we found a patch of Fringed mantis orchids. Too many to count.
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We made our way back to the low granite outcrop and Deb immediately finds some purple variants of the Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) which is quite rare according to my orchid book, so a great find Deb!! Also found on this rock were Lemon-scented sun orchids (Thelymitra antennifera) which flower from July to October between Shark Bay and Israelite Bay and very small donkey orchids.
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Up to 40 yellowish-green, or, more rarely, purplish, flowers
A distinctive column with a yellow crested mid-lobe and reddish-brown, ear like lateral lobes
Size comparison to my index finger
After finding 18 orchid varieties it is now time to head off for Kwolyin campground, where Richard is waiting for us. … Trio travelling begins.
Triton and camper . Richard with Red Triton and tent.
