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.
We are collected from our home by Eric and his father, for an orchid adventure out east of Esperance. We will be showing them our Boyatup location ( Mud Map SE 40) and in return we get chauffeured and have the chance to discuss our findings, views, information and thoughts on our beautiful terrestrial orchids. Enjoying the great outdoors by taking nothing but photographs and leaving only footprints.
Our Boyatup location had been affected by bushfire last summer, so this will be our first visit since early August. It will interesting to see which orchids are in flower later in the season after a summer bushfire.
As usual we turn off fisheries Road into the track leading to the rock and jump out once the first orchid is spied. Seen by Deb of course :). Following will be photos taken of the orchids found along this first part of the track.
Purple Enamel Orchid
Elythranthera brunonis
One of the 2 species found in Western Australia.
The Purple enamel orchid was named in 1963.
Can grow to a height of 300mm
Red beaks
Pyrorchis nigricans
One of the 2 species found in Western Australia.
Red beaks were named in 1810 and placed in the Lyperanthus genus before being moved into the Pyrorchis genus in 1994.
Can grow to a height of 300mm
Common bee orchid
Diuris decrementa
One of the 18 species in the Laxiflora complex of the Diuris genus found in Western Australia
Common bee orchid was named in 2013
Can grow to a height of 300mm
Cowslip orchid
Caladenia flava subsp. flava
One of the 4 subspecies of Cowslip orchid (caladenia flava) found in Western Australia
The Cowslip orchid was named in 1810
Can grow to a height of 250mm
Rattle beaks
Lyperanthus serratus
Is the single Western Australian species of the Lyperanthus genus
Rattle beaks were named in 1840
Can grow to a height of 500mm
We have now reached the gravel pit so drive across this to the track leading to the granite outcrop named Boyatup hill. Back in August we found loads of Pink bunny orchids and Blue beards, plus other orchids in smaller numbers. Let’s see what is now in flower. The following photos are of the orchids found in the area which was burnt by last summers bushfire.
Red beaks
Pyrorchis nigricans
Granite china orchid
Cyanicula nikulinskyae
One of the 8 species in the Gemmata complex of the Cyanicula genus found in Western Australia
Granite china orchid was named in 2000
Can grow to a height of 130mm
White mignonette orchid
Microtis alba
One of the 10 species found in Western Australia
White mignonette orchid named in 1810
Can grow to a height of 600mm
Tall leek orchid
Prasophyllum elatum
One of the 16 species in the Elatum complex of the Prasophyllum genus found in Western Australia
Tall leek orchid was named in 1810
Can grow to a height of 1200mm
Pointing spider orchid
Caladenia exstans
One of the 9 species in the Falcata complex of the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Pointing spider orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 450mm
Zebra orchid
Caladenia cairnsiana
One of the 2 species in the Cairnsiana complex of the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Zebra orchid was named in 1869
Can grow to a height of 400mm
Pink candy orchid
Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea
One of 2 subspecies in the Hirta complex of the Caladenia genus in Western Australia
Pink candy orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 250mm
Hypochromic variant
Cowslip orchid
Caladenia flava subsp. flava
Rabbit orchid
Leptoceras menziesii
Is the only member of the genus Leptoceras
Rabbit orchids were named in 1810 and placed in the Caladenia genus before being moved into the monotypic genus Leptoceras in 1840.
Can grow to a height of 300mm
Common bee orchid
Diuris decrementa
Esperance king spider orchid
Caladenia decora
One of the 22 species in the Huegelii complex of the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Esperance king spider orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 500mm
Dusky fairy orchid
Caladenia x erminea
Hybrid between Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava) and White fairy orchid (Caladenia marginata)
Dusky fairy orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 160mm
Beautiful donkey orchid
Diuris pulchella
One of the 26 species in the Corymbosa complex of the Diuris genus found in Western Australia
Beautiful donkey orchid was named in 1991
Can grow to a height of 500mm
Western wispy spider orchid
Caladenia microchila
One of the 43 species in the Filamentosa complex of the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Western wispy spider orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 250mm
Esperance white spider orchid
Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa
One of the 14 subspecies of C. longicauda, which is one of the 14 species in the Longicauda complex of the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Esperance white spider orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 500mm
Heberle’s spider orchid
Caladenia heberleana
One of 22 species of the Huegelii complex in the Caladenia genus found in Western Australia
Heberle’s spider orchid was named in 2001
Can grow to a height of 450mm
White fairy orchid
Caladenia marginata
One of the 4 species in the Latifolia complex of the Calendenia genus found in Western Australia
White fairy orchid was named in 1839
Can grow to a height of 200mm
Custard orchid
Thelymitra villosa
One of the 6 species in the Antennifera complex of the Thelymitra genus found in Western Australia
Custard orchid was named in 1839
Can grow to a height of 600mm
Blue china orchid
Cyanicula gemmata
One of 8 species in the Gemmata complex of the Cyanicula genus found in Western Australia
Blue china orchid was named in 1839
Can grow to a height of 150mm
Condingup china orchid
Cyanicula sp. ‘Esperance’
One of the 8 species in the Gemmata complex of the Cyanicula genus found in Western Australia
Condingup china orchid was first collected in 1996 but is yet to be formally named
Can grow to a height of 150mm
Laughing leek orchid
Prasophyllum macrostachyum
One of 4 species in the Gracile complex of the Prasophyllum genus found in Western Australia
Laughing leek orchid was named in 1810
Can grow to a height of 300mm
Bearded bird orchid
Pterostylis turfosa
One of 13 species in the Barbata complex of the Pterostylis genus found in Western Australia
Bearded bird orchid was named in 1840
Can grow to a height of 200mm
Hybrid spider orchid
Caladenia x
Unnamed hybrid orchid. Possible parents: C. decora: C. longicauda: C. heberleana: C. hirta:
Lunch time and it’s time we move on. Eric wishes to show us a location where he has previously found the Holy Grail of orchids: Queen of Sheba orchid. He did not have to ask us twice. After having a bite to eat we head off at this new location, just off Parmango Road. Immediately we come across a new orchid, that Deb and myself had never seen. The following orchids are the ones found at this new location, which is now firmly added to our must visit sites.
Twisted sun orchid
Thelymitra flexuosa
One of the 6 species in the Antennifera complex of the Thelymitra genus found in Western Australia
Twisted sun orchid was named in 1839
Can grow to a height of 350mm
Purple enamel orchid
Elythanthera brunonis
Common bee orchid
Diuris decrementa
Cowslip orchid
Caladenia flava subsp. ?
Rattle beaks
Lyperanthus serratus
White mignonette orchid
Microtis alba
Custard orchid
Thelymitra villosa
Dancing spider orchid
Caladenia discoidea
A distinct species of the Caladenia genus endemic to Western Australia
Dancing spider orchid was named in 1839
Can grow to a height of 450mm
Lemon-scented sun orchid
Thelymitra antennifera
One of the 6 species in the Antennifera complex of the Thelymitra genus found in Western Australia
Lemon-scented sun orchid was named in 1840
Can grow to a height of 250mm
Jug orchid
Pterostylis recurva
A unique species of the Pterostylis genus endemic to Western Australia
Jug orchid was named in 1873
Can grow a height of 900mm
.
What a great new location this was off Parmango Road. Time to move on, so we take Eric and his father to our original location off Coolinup road which is on the other side of Condingup. Here we first visit the gravel pit, then decide to bush bash down to our small granite location. The orchids listed below were found on that bush bash plus around the small granite location.
Esperance king spider orchid
Caladenia decora
Laughing leek orchid
Prasophyllum macrostachyum
Heberle’s spider orchid
Caladenia heberleana
Common bee orchid
Diuris decrementa
Bearded bird orchid
Pterostylis turfosa
Purple enamel orchid
Elythranthera brunonis
It proved a very successful day with Boyatup proving itself once again to be a magnificent location for orchids, with this season especially good after last summers bushfire. Thanks to Eric for sharing his Parmango Road location we finally got to see the Twisted sun orchid in bloom and Eric the custard orchid. Nearly 6 hrs spent searching for orchids in great company.
After having breakfast we make our way north to Dudinin which was a quaint little town but with no real prospects for orchid hunting we move on further north to a place called Jitarning. We park next to the CBH wheat bins and head into the bush adjacent. The area proves to be thick with Donkey orchids with a small patch of Pink candy orchids (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) found.
Pale to deep pink flowers
Upright labellum
Spreading petals and sepals with a narrow upright labellum
Labellum with short fringe segments and four or more rows of calli
The donkey orchids appear to be Yellow granite donkey orchids (Diuris hazeliae) as they are larger and brighter yellow than the ones found in Harrismith.
Tri-lobed labellum with broad, spreading lateral lobes and a broad, flattened to convex mid lobe
Bubble head
Reflexed, usually crossed lateral sepals
Visitor on 1 petal
Broad petals and dorsal sepal
So many donkey orchids but we need to move on. Well not to far as we cross the Williams-Kondinin Road and visit the bush the other side. The only orchid found over this side was the Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica). On walking back to the Triton we discover the area we had been exploring was in fact the Jitarning Nature Reserve.
United dorsal sepal and petals form a hood
Flowers only 4.5 to 5.5mm across
Next stop is the North Jitarning Nature Reserve a few kilometres north on the western side of the road. After parking the Triton we make our way west into the bush and our first find is the ever faithful Purple enamel orchid (Elythanthera brunonis). In fact they were everywhere in this reserve.
Glossy purple flowers
Small membranous labellum with two large black basal calli
Underside of petals and sepals spotted in colouring
Up to 3 flowers per stem
Spreading petals and sepals
Further hunting and we found some Frog greenhoods (Pterostylis sargentii) growing underneath some bushes.
Green to dark brown, white striped flowers
50 – 200mm high with up to 10 stem leaves
Short lateral sepals
United petals and dorsal sepal form hood
Then even further hidden under bushes Deb spies a bird orchid. Further specimens found, which all appear to be Dwarf bird orchids (Pterosylis sp. ‘dwarf’) as they are found between Eurardy Station and Peak Charles during August and September. We first found this orchid back in August 2016 near Corrigin.
Short lateral sepals which are joined at the base
A distinctive feather-like labellum with fine fringe segments
Two close neighbours
Short-beaked bird orchid
Further Fringe mantis orchids are found as are more Donkey orchids.
Comb-like fringe segments to labellum
Spreading petals
Greenish-yellow, red-tipped labellum
Up-swept lateral sepals
Unsure of the species of this one
Broad petals and dorsal sepal
Up to 7 flowers per stem
Lateral sepals reflexed and usually crossed
We were also lucky enough to find a spider orchid, which I am naming, Red thread spider orchid (Caladenia erythronema) as they flower August to early October in locations between Nyabing and Mukinbudin.
Variably dull red, pinkish red or dull cream to creamy yellow with dull red markings
Two rows of red to cream calli
Pendulous petals and sepals covered in deep-red hairs
We then make tracks for Kulin, to fuel up, then head off on the Tin Horse Hwy. After checking out some of the great Tin horses we make our way to Buckley’s Breakaway for lunch.
Picture stop
A Charlton Horston Epic
Ned’s Horse
PLC Piping Pony
Amazing colours
Harder rock than the surrounding soil
Erosion artwork
The breakaway is massive
On the walk from the car park / picnic area we find some Donkey orchids. Nothing else found on the walk around the breakaway, however it was an impressive sight.
2 – 3 basal leaves and up to 7 flowers
Predominately yellow, brown marked flowers
Erect petals and reflexed dorsal sepal
Tri-lobed labellum with broad, spreading lateral lobes and a broad, flattened to convex mid lobe
Reflexed, usually crossed lateral sepals
We now head further east, till we again reach Dragon Rocks Nature Reserve. At the northern end of the reserve, whilst earlier on the trip we were at the southern end. We find what we hoped was the road south, which dissects the reserve, and travel along slowly with heads out the windows looking for orchids. They proved more elusive than before but we did find our first ones. A finished Jug orchid then some Frog greenhoods.
Well past it’s best
Green to dark brown, white striped flowers
Petals and dorsal sepal form a hood
It was more than a half hour later, before any more orchids were found. Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) were a surprise find.
Up to 7 red and white flowers
Short spreading petals and lateral sepals
Large fleshy, oval, dark green and red speckled leaf
Prominently curved dorsal sepal forming hood over the column
Further south we come across some spider orchids. From their appearance I will name these Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia) due to the yellowish colouring, dark brownish tail filaments and backswept slightly elevated petals.
Petals backwards, elevated to horizontal
Petals and sepals with dark brownish tail filaments
Dorsal sepal erect to incurved, lateral sepals deflexed to drooping, petals backswept, usually elevated
Small white, red striped labellum with dentate fringe segments and two rows of white, sometimes red-tipped calli
Creamy-white to pale-yellow flowers
A solitary Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) and Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) were found a little further down the track, however as time was slipping away and we had previously visited the south of the Dragon Rocks N. R., we headed straight for our last stop of the day, being the Rock View Nature Reserve.
Bright distinctive orchid
Short spreading petals and sepals
United petals and dorsal sepal forms hood over the column
Green, brown and white flowers
It is now past 5.30pm when we arrive at Rock View N. R. so we quickly have a look around. First orchid I find is the Midget greenhood, whilst Debbie finds more spider orchids.
Midget greenhood
100 – 200mm high
Midget greenhood
Pterostylis mutica
From the appearance I believe these to be further Chameleon spider orchids.
Two rows of white or red-tipped calli
Spreading petals and lateral sepals
Relatively small labellum
A common variable inland spider orchid
Creaming white to pale yellowish flowers, occasionally with variable reddish toning
White, red-striped labellum with dentate fringe segments
Due to the inclement weather we did not wish to set up camp, however as we were unable to find overnight accommodation, this stop proved to be the final stop of our 2017 Road Trip.
We had planned to leave tonight and camp up at Mt Madden, however as I drove the Triton home from work the ENGINE light remained on, then as the sun set we noticed the headlights were not working. Called Dave our mechanic, who came around and after 2hrs he had replaced our globes, ballasts and exchange. So now we have lights and the ENGINE light is no longer on. We slowly pack the Triton and camper trailer and then go to bed with plans to leave early in the morning.
1/9/2017
Woke up around 5am, showered, last minute packing and then off to Puma to fill up the Triton. Around 6am we are finally on our way. First stop is the Ravensthorpe lookout which was the very first place ever that we found Jug orchids. Guess what is the first orchid found is ? …. Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva), what a great coincidence. As towing our camper at slow speed up a gravel hill is proving a challenge, we drive to the top and slowly make our way down. 2nd orchid found is Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta). A few scattered plants only, then a great group is found by Deb at the side of the road.
Recurva relates to the curved backwards of the lateral sepals
Horizontally spread petals and lateral sepals
Bluish-mauve flower
Size comparison with my index finger tip
Nice group shot
Nothing further found, other than more Jugs and Tiny Blues, so we make our way back to the track on level ground and closer to the Hwy we find some more Pterostylis orchids. We have now added another location for the Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica). Also found were some good old Banded greenhoods (Pterostylis vittata). Next stop is Ravensthorpe for a toilet break.
United petals and dorsal sepal forming hood
Light green, white banded flowers
Up to 15 pale green flowers
Blunt petals and sepals
100-200mm heigh
Lake King Nature Reserve on the Old Newdegate Rd is checked out with only Western tiny blue orchids found. Further along the road at the Dunn Rock Nature Reserve we find a spent Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii) and a yet to flower Red beak (Pyrorchis nigricans).
Reddish-mauve prominently tri-lobed labellum
Closed up and fertilised
Large fleshy pale green leaf
North of Newdegate we pull into a gravel pit for lunch, which is in the Rockview Nature Reserve. Here we find another Jug orchid. Our planned destination of Dragon Rocks Nature Reserve is reached just after 1pm and our first find is the little Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata). Further down the track our first glimpse of yellow delivers us our first Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava). Eye catching as usual.
Dark green, fawn and white flowers
Short mid-lobe with several rows of calli
Golden yellow, creamy yellow or white, often red marked flowers
We venture deeper into the bush and another colour appears. Pink. The first of many Pink candy orchids (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) is found and nearby is the first spider orchid of the day. These pretty orchids are found from Kalbarrie to Israelite Bay and flower late June to September. Common spider orchid (Caladenia vulgata) would appear to be the species found. Another yellow orchid is found. Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris sp. ‘western wheatbelt’) seems to be the one due to location.
Short spreading petals and lateral sepals
Upright labellum with short fringe segments and four or more rows of calli
Up to three pale to deep pink flowers
Creamy-white red-striped labellum
Usually pendulous petals and lateral sepals
Upright dorsal sepal
Yet to fully bloom in the wet weather
Hanging, often reflexed, crossed lateral sepals
Up to 4 pale yellow brown marked flowers.
Another spider orchid is found with much darker red tips to petals and sepals plus a larger labellum as well. Location and these colourings lead me to name it Ballerina spider orchid (Caladenia melanema). Found in the Pingaring – Lake Grace area (30kms away), flowering August to mid September. We make it to Dragon Rocks themselves and growing on the granite are some Little laughing leek orchids (Prasophyllum gracile). Other spider, donkey, candy and sugar orchids are found, but as it is nearly 3pm we make tracks back to Newdegate to travel westwards.
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
Creamy-white flowers
Long pendulous petals and lateral sepals
Found growing in shallow soil pockets on inland granite outcrops
Yellowish-green or rarely purplish flowers
Fused lateral sepals with elongated tips, forward facing dorsal sepal
Quick stop made at South Buniche Nature Reserve where we find some Dark banded greenhoods (Pterostylis sanguinea) and more Jug and Sugar orchids. Then onto Lake Grace lookout, a favourite location of ours, that has yet again produced results. First up is the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia). Also found nearby was another Common spider orchid.
Up to 10 fleshy, dark reddish-brown to green , white banded flowers
A distinctive orchid 50 to 150 mm high
Also called: Recurved shell orchid, antelope orchid and bull orchid
Up to 3 white to creamy-white flowers with narrow, usually pendulous petals and lateral sepals
spreading petals and lateral sepals
Yellow, cream or pink-red flowers
Then a Sugar orchid is found under the scrub. Another spider orchid is found, this time a Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila) and a donkey orchid – possible a further Western wheatbelt donkey orchid. Jug orchids also found however as it is now getting dark and we plan to stay overnight in Wagin, we make tracks.
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
small red-striped labellum
pendulous petals and lateral sepals
Possible Western whealbelt donkey orchid
dark green, fawn and white flowers
Overnight in Wagin at the local motel, very pricey for such a basic room, but as we ran out of daylight and with possible rain overnight, it seemed the easier option. Pizza enjoyed for dinner and time for sleep after a long first day. 16 orchids ticked off the list.
19/8/2017 On a tip from our friend Deb Witt we are heading north of Gibson to check out what lies within 50km of home. However first we have our standard fully cooked breakfast at the Esperance Bird & Animal Park and then our obligatory check of Helms Arboretum. Just past the large green log sign at the entrance we find some Esperance King spider orchids (Caladenia decora) of various colours.
Twins
Colour variants
Close-up shot
We also checked out our Curly Locks but it still has a way to go before flowering. Fingers crossed it is still there when we return from our September holidays.
Turning east from the Coolgardie-Esperance Hwy we park opposite a patch of scrub with a small lake. Just off the road where we parked Deb spots the first orchid of the day. Donkey orchids are found everywhere on the North roadside verge. Unable to verify exact species as the location does not match any in the books. Possible two different types found as one is duller yellow with hanging sepals and the other is brighter yellow with re-curved and crossed sepals.
Crossed sepals
Slight profile shot
Duller yellow
Front on shot . Large petals and crossed sepals
Straight hanging sepals
Twins
Re-curved sepals
We cross the road to the lake side and start looking around when Deb calls me over as she has found a Hare orchid (Leporella fimbriata). This distraction nearly had me walking into a huge Golden orb spider (Nephila edulis). The poor old Hare orchid was well and truly finished for the season.
Triple header way past it’s prime
Nephila edulis
More searching and we turn up more Donkey orchids and the first Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) sprouting from the many leaves spotted. In fact there were so many Red beak and Hare orchid leaves around you sometimes could not help stepping on them.
Pyrorchis nigricans
Flower just poking through
Bright sunshine
Flower squeezing itself out
Full orchid shot
Could be a reflection in a mirror
The first Pterostylis orchids of the day were also found. Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata) and Jug orchid , plus of course some more Donkey orchids.
Only 1 flower head still green
Still yet to fully open, looking like a stork or bird
Beautiful big petals and this crossed lateral sepals
Growing near the rushes
Quite a tall specimen
Looking under a tallish shrub I notice a patch of Banded greenhoods so make my way under to get a photo. Telling Deb of my find I glance down and there is this very small white coloured orchid. It happened to be a small Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) which was partially opened. I grabbed some photos and then moved over to take some Banded greenhood photos whilst Deb took some of the Sugar orchid. This little orchid actually fully opened over a period of a few minutes so my next shots were of it fully open.
Just opening up
Ericksonella saccharata
Deb taking a photo on her iPhone. Great size comparison
Fully opened over 4 minutes
Pic below is of the Banded Greenwood I mentioned above that lead me to the sugar orchid.
Still looking fresh unlike his nearby friends
We then made our way back to the Triton and moved further West and turned North along the railway line. We parked up and had a bite to eat before venturing out for another hunt. Deb spied another Sugar orchid and I took a photo of the habitat it was found in and what we get up to taking these photos.
Deb down n dirty getting a photo
Full flower shot showing thin leaf
Another flower out in the open this time
Another Red beak sprouting, lone Snail orchid and Dancing spider (Caladenia discoidea) are found in this area, before we head over the railway line.
Possibly a Brittle snail orchid.. Very small rosette
Twins emerging
Another hybrid ???
Immediately we find what we thought was another sugar orchid, however on returning home and checking the photos on our computer we notice it is in fact a Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta). These are found August to early October from Dumbleyung to Mount Ragged. We now laugh that we were so blinded to the fact they were two very different orchids, just both so small, so just appeared to be variants in colour only.
Full length shot
Cyanicula aperta
This side of the railway line proved very fruitful with many orchids found. Brittle snail orchids (Pterostylis timothyi), more Western tiny blue orchids, more Redbeaks emerging, further Dancing orchids and even more Donkey orchids.
Western tiny blue orchid and Brittle Snail orchid
Much paler hence confusing it with a Sugar orchid
Standing tall n strong . Not so his neighbour
Stalked pointed leaves to the rosette
Nice full length shot , growing at edge of road
Showing the thick calli
Full flower shot
???
????????????????
Time to head south so we make tracks west until a road heading south is found. At a place where the road had been straightened we take the old track and stop for lunch. Deb spies two Dancing spider orchids and finally a Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) fully opened. I locate some more Donkey orchids then on the other side of this small triangular piece of bush I find some beautiful Esperance king spider orchids. More Donkey orchids found then onward further south.
Very stiffly held petals and sepals
Little tuck under with the lateral sepals
?????????????
????????????????
Profile shot
Second flower juts out from the main stem
Profile shot
Looking into the jug
?????????????
???????????????
We stop as the track turns east to a farmers paddock and check around as we can see more Donkey orchids from the Triton. After looking around only Donkeys found here.
?????????????
????????????????????
??????????????????
???????????????/
??????????????????
The track itself does head straight ahead it just reduces in size and standard. Very weedy now so we cross over the creek at a granite ford. A little further along a small patch opens up to the right, so we decide to check it out. A little patch of yellow catches Deb’s eye and she calls me over as she has found a season first Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementa) which flowers from August to November and is found from North of Perth to East of Esperance.
Diuris decrementa
Diuris decrementa
We finally make it back to the road and head south stopping a few more times but only finding a single Cowslip orchid.
Texture shot
Lonely fellow
At the intersection we make a final stop and cross the road to have on more search for anything. Deb calls me over as she finds some Esperance King spider orchids. Now the word some is a little bit understated … There are so many it is impossible to count them.
Nice big boy
Giving a bow
Such bold colours
Huge cluster of spiders
Cluster of spiders
Small cluster
Shorty
Also found in numerous clusters were Wispy spider orchids. Unsure of the exact type though.
Smaller cluster in moss
Great cluster
Another great cluster
A further cluster
Mossy cluster
Some single specimens were also found but I will not attempt to name the exact types of these either.
Red pointer
Tall and thin
Red limbs
Side profile
Tall and straight soldier
Full frontal
This final location ended an awesome day with new finds and so many orchids in one place… Nature is grand alright !!!
Back to Helms Arboretum (Mud Map SE35) to see what’s now flowering. First up we locate the one and only Southern curly-locks (Thelymitra uliginosa) and it has just sprouted so hopefully it will be in flower before our September holidays.
We then made our way to Plot 8 where we find the beginning of the snail orchid eruption, which we have witnessed in previous years. First we find Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis sp. ‘inland’).
Pterostylis sp. ‘inland’
Profile shot
Front on shot with hairy stem
Also found two other snail orchid species. Unsure of the classification for both with one being taller, with 3 stem leaves but a lack of hairs on the stem and the other being quite small stature with 2 stem leaves and a rosette of crinkled edged leaves.
Full length shot
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
Quite tall with pointed rosette leaves
Taking a photo on the iPhone
Size comparison to my index finger
Also found were some Banded greenhoods (Pterostylis vittata)with many more finished for the season.
Brighter green this one
Pterostylis vittata
Finally we head down to the western edge of the Arboretum and check out under the pine trees. Some little microtis type leaves with sprouts found and many pyrorchis leaves, some were very large. Nothing else found so we have some afternoon tea and head home.
We move to a different location on the other side of Coolinup Road and have a bite to eat for lunch. Whilst eating and having a cuppa after taking a selfie on a mound of gravel, we notice some snail and greenhood orchids. On closer inspection they are Dark banded greenhood (Pterostylis sanguinea) and Fawn snail orchid (Pterostylis parva). Then right next to the Triton Deb spies another Spider orchid which appears to be a Western Wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila) as the calli on the labellum have red colouring to them. This is promising!!!!
Pterostylis sanguinea
Pterostylis parva
Caladenia microchila
On the walk around we locate more snails, spiders and greenhoods. I even came across a dodgy looking hare orchid.
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
Yet to fully unravel those petals and lateral sepals
Long straight sepals
Twins
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
Nice specimen
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
We then move onto the small granite rock area on Coolinup Road. (Mud Map SE 38) We again had to bush bash our way in as the recent rain had created a large puddle over our access. Once through Deb finds some Mosquito orchids (Cyrtostylis robusta) in flower under the bushes so we do the best we can to get some photos. Only