After a wonderful sleep in beautifully restored and decorated bedrooms we leave Greenhills but not before checking out a few of the historic landmarks. Next on the days agenda is a visit to Meckering which was the site of an earthquake back in 1968. Memorial visited as well as a ruined homestead. Lunch is enjoyed in the townsite of Minnivale where I have a quick orchid hunt. I stumble across the Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa).
Greenhills BakeryMeckering Earthquake Memorial ParkDiuris brachyscapa
Travelling in a NW direction we check out Mollerin Rock and it’s nearby Nature Reserve. After a 2hr search the following orchids were encountered: Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera), Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile), Small flowered donkey orchid (Diuris porrifolia), Ant / Clown orchid (Caladenia roei), Dainty blue orchid (Cyanicula amplexans), Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava), Candy orchid (Caladenia hirta), ?? rufous greenhood (Pterostylis sp.), Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) and possibly the Salt Lake spider orchid (Caladenia exilis subsp. exilis)??
Given our next planned pub stay is only 22kms as the crow flies to the NNE we decide to firstly explore Beverley on foot with Jan and Bob. We check out the old buildings, numerous murals and artworks as well as the Railway Station precinct.
Leaving Beverley around 9am, we headed northwest to Wandoo National Park to visit Mount Observation. We started by exploring the picnic areas and car park, then wandered along the roadside. Overall, we were lucky enough to spot the following species: Blue beard / Blue fairy orchid (Pheladenia deformis), Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid (Caladenia falcata), Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva), Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea), Candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp hirta), Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava), Silky blue orchid (Cyanicula sericea), Bird orchid (Pterostylis barbata), Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera), Big clubbed spider orchid (Caladenia magniclavata) and Clubbed spider orchid (Caladenia longiclavata).
We are currently as far west as out travels will take us. Heading back east we call into York for a look and take the opportunity for a bakery lunch. Moving further east along Goldfields Road we pull over for a photo opp. It is here we part ways with Jan and Bob and will catch up at Greenhills our next overnight stop. Deb and I continue along the road until we stop at the Wallaby Hills Nature Reserve. Here we go exploring and stumble across the following orchids: Cowslip orchid, Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata), Jug orchid, Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid, Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis), Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa), and finally a spent Hare orchid (Leporella fimbriata).
We leave Wallaby Hills N.R. as we need to start our way back toward Greenhills. We pull into Doodenanning and check out the sports ground, hall and community sheep dip before moving onto the cemetery. (Doodenanning 1) Whilst looking around we uncover the following orchids: Western wheatbelt donkey orchid, Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) and possibly a hybrid? Tangled white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. redacta), Candy orchid and Stark white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens).
Leaving Doodenanning we travel west along the same named road until pulling over to check out a roadside verge. (Greenhills 1) As it is now 4.30pm we have a quick wander around and still find the following orchids: Yellow spider orchid (Caladenia denticulata subsp. denticulata), Crimson spider orchid (Caladenia footeana) or could it be Clumped / Strawberry spider orchid (Caladenia denticualta subsp. rubella) due to the less prominent stripes on labellum. Thoughts? Pouched leek orchid (Prasophyllum cyphochilum) and unsurprisingly the Western wheatbelt donkey orchid.
It is now past 4.30pm so we make the quick drive to Greenhills where we check into our amazingly restored hotel, the Greenhills Inn. We found out it had been sold and the new owners are not renewing the liquor licence so it will no longer be a hotel and will be converted to an Artist Retreat. So glad we got to experience it before it becomes an exclusive place.
After enjoying our pub breakfast with Jan and Bob, we go our separate ways and will catch up again at Hotel Beverley our next overnight stay.
Deb and I decide to have a walk around Cuballing to start the day and took some tourist snaps.
Memorial in CuballingMemorial in CuballingCuballing CWACuballing HallCuballing Post OfficeOld bank building
After a wonderful walk around town we drive east out of Cuballing to the Commodine Nature Reserve for our first orchid exploration of the day.
This proved a great location with many species found, starting with the good olde faithful Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava). However, one particular specimen could be the Brookton Highway cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. ‘late red’) due to its size and colouring. Thoughts?
The Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata) was found all over the area checked. The rest of the orchids found were not in such numbers but still a buzz to find: Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid (Caladenia falcata), Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata), Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata), Dark banded greenhood (Pterostylis sanguinea), Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa), Little pink fairy (Caladenia reptans subsp. reptans), Small-flowered donkey orchid (Diuris porrifolia), Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta), Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea), Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) and Un-named caladenia hybrid (Caladenia flava x reptans).
What a great location, with 12 or more species found, with 1 hybrid.
Cyanicula gemmataCaladenia falcataEricksonella saccharataPterostylis vittataPterostylis sanguineaPterostylis setulosaCaladenia reptans subsp. reptansDiuris porrifoliaPterostylis occultaCaladenia hirta subsp. roseaPterostylis recurvaCaladenia flava x reptansSize comparison of Blue China orchid
After nearly 2 hours we move back to the Great Southern Hwy, then. north to Yornaning, where we check out the dam walk trails before we have a picnic lunch. A good number of orchid species are found as follows: Common donkey orchid (Diuris corymbosa), Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid, Banded greenhood, Cowslip orchid, Blue china orchid, Candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. hirta), Jug orchid and Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera).
However, by far the most prolific orchids found belong to the Filamentosa complex of the Caladenia genus. Identification of particular species within this complex always proves challenging and the finds at this location confirm this conclusion.
Possible species found are: Chapman’s spider orchid (Caladenia chapmanii), Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma), Crimson spider orchid (Caladenia footeana), Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia), Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians) and Tenterden yellow spider orchid (Caladenia staminichila).
I have attempted to name all but one of my pics so feel free to comment on your thoughts.
Well, this was an amazing lunch spot, but all good things must come to an end, so onwards we move. Northwards past Popanyinning and Pingelly we head then pull into Kulyaling Nature Reserve for a first-time exploration. First up I check out the western side of the Avon River before walking over the bridge to join Debbie for an exploration of the eastern shore. Other than some amazing orchid finds we also come across the abandoned cricket pitch as recorded in Maps.
Orchids found in no particular order, on either shore of the river are as follows: Candy orchid, Small-flowered donkey orchid, Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid, Crimson spider orchid, Blue beard / Blue fairy orchid (Pheladenia deformis), Cowslip orchid, Sugar orchid and Blue china orchid.
Only 1 new species for the day, though we should not expect more given we are within 40kms NNW as the crow flies from our previous 2 locations.
We now head northwards past Brookton and then westwards to Dale where we checked out the historic Dale Community Hall and the Anglican church, St John in the Wilderness. A quick search and we found more Green spider orchids and Small-flowered donkey orchids.
Caladenia falcataSt John in The Wilderness (Anglican Church)Diuris porrifoliaDale Community Hall
As it’s now past 4:30, we head toward Beverley where our hotel stay awaits. Driving along Westdale Road, we spot a sign for Dale River Reserve, so we turn onto Deep Pool Road to check it out, about 4 km in.
At first, not much is discovered, but with closer inspection, the following species are revealed: Candy orchid, Blue beard / Blue fairy orchid, Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile), Crimson spider orchid, Green spider / Fringed mantis orchid, and Small-flowered donkey orchid.
Another new species for the day, which is great, but we need to head off as it is now after 5.30pm.
Well, we arrive at the Hotel Beverley before 6pm and are greeted by Jan and Bob. We check in then proceed to have a great pub meal before hitting the sack. Around 23 species found today!!!!
We awake to another beautiful spring morning, enjoy our breakfast then hit the road, but only for 100km before stopping for our first exploration of the day. Yilliminning Rock is in the locality of Boundain in the Shire of Narrogin.
First orchid located and picture recorded at 11.36am. Chapman’s spider orchid (Caladenia chapmanii) was found in varying shades so have posted numerous pics so you can appreciate the colours,
The exploration for the orchids took in the rock and the surrounding bush, which was completed after enjoying lunch.
We then move onto our overnight stop at the Cuballing Tavern, where we check in then as per yesterday Deb and I head off looking for orchids, whilst Bob and Jan do their own thing.
First exploration is done around the Cuballing Cemetery where we are pleased to find numerous species of orchids, some new for the day. First though I will list those found for the 2nd time today beginning with: Cowslip orchid, Green spider/ Fringed mantis orchid, Jug orchid, Small flowered donkey orchid, Sugar orchid and a Banded greenhood.
Then for the new orchid species of the day, starting with the beautiful Primrose spider orchid (Caladenia xantha) followed by: Slender snail orchid (Pterostylis crispula), Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata) and Stark white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens).
Well orchid hunting is done for the day, so it’s back to the tavern for a cold bevy and a good pub meal with Jan and Bob. With another 17 species found we head off to bed with a sense of fulfillment.
Today is the day that our Pub Crawl around the Southeast of WA commences. We head off in the Triton around 8.45 am and venture over to Nulsen to pick up our travelling companions for the adventure, Bob and Jan. First stop is at the Munglinup1 Roadhouse, where I take the time to have a very quick check for orchids.
8 species are found, which is quite unbelievable. First up, the reliable Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) is found. Next is a large white spider orchid, which, given its location, I will name the Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa). Thirdly is one of the smaller spider orchids from the Filamentosa complex. It is most likely the Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians). Next is the small Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana). The 5th orchid found is the Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera). A not fully opened Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis) is found next. The 7th orchid for the day is the Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea). Final and 8th orchid for this location is the Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima).
We now move on to the lookout on Ethel Daw Drive in the Ravensthorpe shire. Only 2 species were found along the roadside. First up is the Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta),followed by the Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata).
Cyanicula apertaEricksonella saccharata
Moving back to Elverdton Road, we head west and pull into a new location I will name Ravensthorpe1. Walking along this dirt track, we locate 4 species, 1 new for the day. Found again were the Small mantis orchid, Sugar orchid and Western tiny blue orchid. The new species for the day is the Common dragon orchid (Caladenia barbarossa). Terrible pictures were taken, so I will include only 2.
Passing through Ravensthorpe, will pull into Kukernup Memorial to have lunch. After having a bite to eat, we all venture out to explore the walk trail. It was a great spot, as we found 9 orchid species in flower. First up is the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva), Next, more Dancing spider orchids and Common dragon orchids are found. Also found again were more Small mantis orchids, Lemon-scented sun orchids, Cowslip orchids and Purple enamel orchids. Other new species found for the day are the Redbeak (Pyrorchis nigricans) and the Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii).
We now backtrack to the road leading to Lake King and head north. Next stop is one of our all-time favourite places. Pallarup Rocks picnic area provides loads of places to explore for orchids. We are not disappointed with the species located. First up are the Sugar orchid, Cowslip orchid, Jug orchid, Purple enamel orchid, and Lemon-scented sun orchid, which were all found earlier today at prior locations.
New species found start with the Ant orchid (Caladenia roei), quickly followed by the closely related Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura)and Purple-veined spider orchid (Caladenia doutchiae).
The next new species found for the day was the Pink candy orchid(Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) together with its hybrid – Tinged spider orchid(Caladenia x suffusa). So, now to find the other possible parent of the hybrid. Due to the location, I believe the other parent to be the Pallarup white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. ‘Pallarup’). Luckily specimens are found.
Caladenia hirta subsp. roseaCaladenia x suffusaCaladenia longicauda subsp. ‘Pallarup’
Once up on the granite rock we come across some donkey orchids. I believe them to be the Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae). I have posted images of 3 orchids as they may represent another species.
Diuris hazeliaeDiuris sp.Diuris sp.
A smaller whiteish spider orchid is found in various shades, however I feel they are all the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia).
Do you agree they are all one species?
Also found a nice bunch of what appears to be another orchid species, possibly the Central wheatbelt spider orchid (Caladenia sp. ‘central wheatbelt’) however is outside of the recorded location.
Another frog greenhood is found however on closer inspection; it is actually a Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta)due to the hairy narrow horn-like labellum structures. 2 pics posted to show this aspect as clearly as possible
Pterostylis occultaPterostylis occulta
Another new orchid for the day is the Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) which is found growing in shallow soil on the granite.
Other random hybrids are found during the search, and I will post them below for record keeping. Assigning parents is always difficult for hybrids especially between the Roei and Filamentosa complexes.
Unknown hybrid??Unknown hybridCaladenia doutchiae x hortistesPrasophyllum gracilePrasophyllum gracile
Well that is our final orchid stop for the day, so it is off to our first hotel stay. Night 1 is spent at the Newdegate Hotel. Checked out the Silo Art before settling in for the night.
Newdegate SilosNewdegate Hotel
23 species found with a possible 4 hybrids, plus a possible new species but outside its usual range.
Well, this has proven to be a full-on day trip looking for orchids. The last stop for the day is an East Munglinup location, though this time it’s on Jonegatup Road.
The first orchid found is the Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima),which has been a common orchid at various locations today. Flowering occurs from August to October in woodlands and shrublands between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay.
Whilst capturing a photo of the Small mantis orchid, another smaller orchid is spied. Another better example is found soon after. The Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta) is found between Northampton and Ravensthorpe from late-August to October. Our location is some 80kms to the east of Ravensthorpe, so a slight extension to its range.
Further along, a couple of specimens of the Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) are found. These small orchids occur between Lancelin and Esperance from August to early-November.
It was amazing to catch 2 species of orchids growing together. The Small mantis orchid was found under the watchful eye of the Common dragon orchid (Caladenia barbarossa). The dragon orchid is found growing between Bindoon and Esperance from September to mid-November.
Appears to be the location for Caladenia species. Next up, we find the Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura). These orchids are found between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay during August and September.
5 other species were also spotted at this location. 4 were solo specimens: Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta) Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians)
Lastly was the Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera), which was found in a group, though not yet fully open.
So, our day trip finally comes to an end. We now need to drive the 112 kms home, but we do so with a sense of achievement. This final location turned up 10 different orchid species, whilst over the whole day, we discovered at least 27 orchid species and at least 1 hybrid. What a Day !!!!!
After a wonderful morning finding 15 species of orchids over numerous locations, we pull off the road to park up and enjoy lunch, from the boot of my small Toyota Corolla (Fili). Neds Corner Rd is the border between the locations of Coomalbidgup and East Munglinup. So, our lunch is in East Munglinup8, being West of the road however our explorations take us to the East side as well, which technically is in Coomalbidgup. Not too confusing I trust. 🙂
Car boot lunch break
After lunch we hit the surrounding area for another orchid hunt. Very close by we find our first orchids for the afternoon. The Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) is found growing between Lancelin and Esperance from August to early-November.
Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) are usually found flowering the season after a summer fire has burnt its habitat. This is the case with this location, and they are found in great numbers. Occur between Shark Bay and Israelite Bay from August to October.
Another orchid previously found today is also located at both sides of the road. The Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima) is found between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay during the period August to early-October.
A newbie for the day was next on the list. The tiny Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) occurs between Shark Bay and Eyre during the period July to November.
An orchid which we always expect to find, but on occasions we are disappointed is the Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava). Today we are not disappointed. In fact, we find hundreds growing on the banks of the Young River in the unburnt vegetation, whilst earlier we found sporadic ones growing in the bushfire zone.
In a bushfire regrowth area green with weeds and white sandy soil we find a great patch of the Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora). These orchids range from Bremer Bay to Cape Arid from mis-August to October.
Another newbie and a surprise for the day is the Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) which occurs between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay from late-June to September.
Intermixed with the Cowslips was another yellow-coloured orchid. The Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera)is found between Shark and Israelite Bays from July to October.
As would be expected orchids found earlier today will also be found at this location being only 10km or so north. So further specimens of the Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis) are found as they occur between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay from August to early-November.
A single king type spider orchid is found which does not appear to be the Esperance king spider orchid. Due to the lack of red colouring and the drooping petals I will name this the Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana). These orchids are listed as occurring between Augusta and Cape Arid during September and October. I have posted this ID on iNaturalist and will await other opinions.
Another solitary specimen is found, this time of the Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia) which is found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay from August to early-December.
Upon crossing the road, the first orchid found appears to be a hybrid. The parentage was hard to decipher until we found one of the parents close by. I have decided the parents are Caladenia attingens x barbarossa. Posted on iNaturalist for thoughts from others.
Just past the hybrid orchid we come across one of the parents. The Common dragon orchid (Caladenia barbarossa) is found scattered at the top of the ridge above the river flat. These orchids are found between Bindoon and Esperance from September to mid-November.
Another orchid found as two separate specimens was the Beautiful donkey orchid (Diuris pulchella) which is listed as growing between Salmon Gums and Israelite Bay from July to September. The specimens were north and south of the river. Our location is some 50km southwest of Salmon Gums but the species is recorded at this location in the Atlas of Living Australia.
As I was taking photos of orchids found Debbie is exploring further afield and she yells out excitedly. She has come across a vast warren of the Rabbit orchid (Leptoceras menziesii) which has flowered due to the previous summer bushfire that scorched this area. These orchids are found growing between Northampton and Israelite Bay from September to early-November.
Close by we also found the Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa) which occurs between Bremer and Israelite Bays from August to early-October. Some may be the related Rigid white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. rigidula)which occurs between Ravensthorpe and Israelite Bay during a similar flowering season. The differences between the 2 species are the size of the flower and the rigidness or pendulousness of the petals and sepals. Let me know your thoughts.
Crossing back over the river we come across more spider orchids that appear to be further Esperance king spider orchids. However the better find was some other species of Donkey orchid. Due to the location and date found, I will be naming these the Green Range donkey orchid (Diuris littoralis)which is recorded as occurring between Denmark and Esperance from July to early-September.
Finally made it back to Fili at around 2pm and move onto another location. 16 species found at this location. Part III to follow… Stay tuned
Today Deb and I decide to head out west of Esperance to see what we can find. Our first destination is Lake Monjinup which is located in the Lake Mortijinup Nature Reserve which is also referred to as Lake Monjingup Reserve. 3 different spellings and differing details on the size of the reserve make things rather confusing. This is only a quick check around the parking area as we have many kms to go today.
As would be expected the first orchids found were the Esperance king spider orchids (Caladenia decora). They are amazing large spider orchids that can be so dazzling in their colours.
Another dazzling orchid is found. These are the much smaller Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia) which as the name suggests are pink in colour. They do have a much larger range, occurring between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay in WA but are also found in Vic, Tas, and SA. The Esperance king spider by comparison is found only between Bremer Bay and Cape Arid in WA.
Our next stop is nearly 1 hours’ drive west in Coomalbidgup9. We park up off the road and venture into the roadside vegetation. This was just one of those “Let’s check this spot out” random choices. And guess what? It paid off this time 🙂
First up we find the Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)growing sporadically over the location searched. These orchids are found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay.
Another orchid found throughout this location was the bright yellow Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementum). These small orchids are found from near to Perth to east of Esperance.
A 2nd species of yellow orchid is also found. The common Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) was expected but is always a surprise to find as well. This particular subspecies is the most widespread of the 4 names subspecies.
Who would have picked it, another yellow orchid is found in good numbers. The Twisted sun orchid (Thelymitra flexuosa) grows with sedges and low shrubs in moist places such as the edge of swamps. It is found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay and is also found in southern Vic, south-eastern SA and Tas.
Also found at this location were more Esperance king spider orchids.
The discovery of the final orchid at this location was unexpected, as the area has not seen a recent burn. Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) typically flower following a summer fire however, rare specimens bloom without fire, which appears to be case in instance. Found between Shark Bay and Israelite Bay in WA and all Australian states except Qld and the NT.
Next stop is a new Coomalbidgup10 spot where the powerline gives easy access. Today, we encountered additional specimens of some previously identified orchids so I will post a picture of them to document their presence at this new location.
Red beaksPurple enamel orchidCowslipCommon bee orchid
New species for the day were also found. Firstly, came the Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa) which as the name suggests is found in a range between Bremer Bay and Cape Arid which includes Esperance.
A solitary Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta) was found. These small guys flower between Ongerup and Israelite Bay. Pics taken from different angles either highlight or diminish the blue colouring of the orchid flower.
And the final new species found at this new location was the bright Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera)which is found flowering between Shark and Israelite Bays.
We head further north up Neds Corner Road and make a random roadside stop at some low granite. On the West side of the road, it was covered in water but on the East side it was mainly dry. We found orchids on both sides of the road, though mostly the same as previously found today. Common bee orchids, Lemon-scented sun orchids and Cowslip orchids listed for recording purposes.
Common bee orchidCowslip orchidLemon-scented sun orchid
New species for today is found on the East side of the road. The Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima) is found flowering between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay.
A spent Jug orchid (Pterosylis recurva) was found as were some orchids yet to flower. Thelymitra, Microtis and possibly Prasophyllum orchids in bud and some leaves to tempt us. We move on but not too far of course 🙂
Microtis sp. in budThelymitra sp. in budJug orchidPrasophyllum sp. in bud ???Orchid leaves
Only a little way up the road will pull over at another random spot due to a change in vegetation cover. First up hiding underneath a shrub a compact clump of Western tiny blue orchids is found.
An exciting find here was a small patch of the Dwarf shell orchid (Pterostylis brevichila). These orchids are found flowering between Hyden and Mount Arid.
Another new orchid for today is found, from the Caladenia genus, which is always exciting. The Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura)is another easterly located orchid, as it grows between Ravensthorpe and Israelite Bay.
The next orchids found are the small Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) and the Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii) which are found from Watheroo to Esperance and Mullewa to Grass Patch respectively.
Then some further Esperance white spider orchids and Small mantis orchids are found. As usual I will post a pic of each for recording purposes.
As we proceed, we take a moment to reflect on the discovery of 15 distinct species of orchids. With additional locations yet to be explored, this promises to be a highly successful orchid hunting expedition. As I compose these blog posts several months after the actual date, I am dividing this day into three reports. Stay tuned for Part II and III.
So today I am heading out orchid hunting with another orchid enthusiast. We connected via the South East WA Orchid Group on Facebook. Luc has kindly offered to use his vehicle for the adventure. We have decided to head out east of Esperance and will be sharing our locations and techniques for finding orchids.
Our first location is Mount Ridley. He we pull up on the track, near a low granite outcrop, on the drive in from Dempster Road. This proves a fruitful location as we find multiple species within say 50sqm.
First picture taken is of the Cream spider orchid (Caladenia horistes). They are endemic to WA and are distributed between Southern Cross, Fitzgerald River N.P. and Balladonia. Grow in woodland and mallee scrubs, in damp locations on or around granite outcrops and along seasonal drainage lines.
(Caladenia horistes)
A nice triple headed donkey orchid is then captured in pixels. The Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae) as the names suggests, grows in shallow soil pockets on granite. Also occurs in deeper sandy-clay soil along drainage lines. Distributed between Paynes Find and Balladonia.
(Diuris hazeliae)
Next up the Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) is found scattered across the site. These endemic white orchids are distributed between Paynes Find and Israelite Bay although absent on the West Coast and in the far South West. They grow in a variety of habitats including heaths, woodlands, mallee scrubs and granite outcrops, on sandy to clay to gravelly loam soils.
(Ericksonella saccharata)
Time for a blue orchid to be recorded. The Blue beard (Pheladenia deformis) is also known as the Blue fairy orchid. In WA they are found growing from Murchison River to Israelite Bay. They also occur in SA, Vic, Tas, and NSW. Varied habitats from the coast to inland plains and foothills.
(Pheladenia deformis)
And the last orchid found at this location is the Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima). Found between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay growing in sandy and sandy-clay soils in woodlands and shrublands.
(Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima)
We move onto the main parking area and head into the bush adjacent to the granite outcrop. After quite some time of not finding anything in flower I stumble across a patch of small orchids. Very excited as I have only found these particular orchids once before. Back in 2018 at Wattle Rocks along the Holland Track.
The Dwarf zebra orchid (Caladenia pachychila) is found growing between Nerren Nerren Station and Mt Ragged. Typically, an inland species growing in mallee heaths and scrubs, on sandy to clay loam soils, also in shallow soils on granite outcrops, usually sheltered under shrubs
(Caladenia pachychila)
Intermixed with the dwarf zebra orchids were some small spider orchids. They appear to be more Cream spider orchids.
(Caladenia horistes)
Moving a little further west along the rock edge, still in the bush, I come across a larger spider orchid. I believe this to be the Rigid white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. rigidulus). They are located between Ravensthorpe and Israelite Bay and inland to Balladonia growing in woodland and mallee scrubs, usually on or around granite outcrops. Also occurs on winter-wet flats and along watercourses.
(Caladenia longicauda susbp. rigidulus)
Where the track hits the granite in an isolated patch of vegetation I find another Yellow granite donkey orchid. Before we drive on, I quickly check out the Resurrection bush growing on the flat granite for any orchids. Here I found some more Cream spider orchids.
(Diuris hazeliae)
(Caladenia horistes)
Ok so now we jump back into the 4WD and take the track along the edge of the granite that leads up to the Aboriginal Rock Art.
Under the surrounding scrub a single Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta)is found. Located between Dumbleyung and Mt Ragged growing in mallee scrubs and woodland, on sandy to clay loam soils, also on and around granite outcrops in shallow gravelly soils.
(Cyanicula aperta)
Another solitary orchid found was the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva). These occur between Geraldton and Israelite Bay growing in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands. In inland areas it is also known to occur on granite outcrops in shallow soil pockets.
(Pterostylis recurva)
The Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile)was found growing in the moss on a shallow soil pocket in the granite rock. These orchids occur between Shark Bay and Eyre also growing in sandy, sandy-clay and granitic soils in woodlands and shrublands. Near the coast they also occur in seasonally wet flats.
(Prasophyllum gracile)
In the scrub above the rock art Luc stumbles across a great bunch of Rigid white spider orchids, so I just have to share a pic of these.
(Caladenia longicauda subsp. rigidulus)
Also found nearby was a single Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa) still in flower. In WA these occur between Nerren Nerren Station and Balladonia. They also are found in SA and western NSW. They are a common orchid growing in shallow soil pockets on inland granite outcrops as well as sandy, sandy-clay and granitic soils in woodlands and shrublands.
(Pterostylis setulosa)
Also found was a Sugar orchid, more Cream spider orchids and Yellow granite donkey orchids.
Another first found for the day was a Lemon scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera)growing in the middle of a resurrection plant. These are found between Shark and Israelite Bays, growing on creek margins, seasonally moist flats and granite outcrops.
(Thelymitra antennifera)
Time to move on so Luc takes us to a spot where he has found many Blue beards. It is along the track to the secondary parking area. There we found many Blue beards but many had finished the season already. We did have a quick look around for anything else. Alas nothing else found.
Blue Beards are found in various shades of blue/mauve and can even be found in white.
(Pheladenia deformis)(Pheladenia deformis)
Moving south down Dempster Road to one of my spots (Wittenoom hills3) in the Mt Ridley Nature Reserve which is a location new to Luc. It was here I found shell and greenhood orchids on a previous visit. It will be interesting to see what is found this time.
First up Luc finds the Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica). In WA these orchids are found between Wongan Hills and the SA border, whilst also being found in SA, Vic, NSW, Tas and southern QLD. They grow in sandy, sandy-clay and loamy soils in woodlands and scrublands.
(Pterostylis mutica)
Then a small spider is seen hiding in the dry gum leaves and sticks. I had not found this species at this location before, so that was exciting.
The Sigmoid spider orchid (Caladenia sigmoidea) is found between Mts Jackson and Ragged growing in mallee woodland on or around rocky outcrops, on heavy clay to lighter sandy loam and sometimes gravelly soils.
(Caladenia sigmoidea)
Found the shell orchid again but not in the numbers previously found.
The Dwarf shell orchid (Pterostylis brevichila) is found between Hyden and Mt Ragged growing in sandy-clay and clay soils in woodlands and shrublands.
(Pterostylis brevichila)
Close to the shell orchid more Sigmoid spider orchids were found. A very special one was discovered. It appears to be a hypochromic/lutea version. These lack certain colour pigments and usually appear yellowish white in colour.
Lutea (Caladenia sigmoidea)
Moving east along Norwood Road we pull into Mt Burdett which unlike Mt Ridley is found within the boundaries of the Nature Reserve bearing its name. We make our way around the base of the rock first, before climbing up to the Telstra tower. Orchids are found sparsely scattered around.
I will list those found at this location that had been found elsewhere today.
Jug Orchid Cream Spider Orchid Yellow Granite Donkey Orchid Western Tiny Blue Orchid
I have also included a video of the Cream spider orchids blowing in the wind, to provide you some idea of how hard it can be to get a good photo !!
Now for the more exciting finds here at Mt Burdett.
Firstly, comes the colourful Beautiful donkey orchid (Diuris pulchella)which occurs between Salmon Gums and Israelite Bay growing in shallow soil pockets on granite outcrops and deeper soils in surrounding shrublands.
(Diuris pulchella)
Next, we find the Pink bunny orchid (Eriochilus scaber subsp. scaber)still in flower. These small orchids are found between Jurien Bay and Cape Arid National Park usually after a previous summer bushfire. They prefer moist habitats, and our little patch is found growing in the moss on the granite rock.
(Eriochilus scaber subsp. scaber)
A single flowering Brittle snail orchid (Pterostylis timothyi)is the final orchid found at this location. They occur between Mt Lindesay and Mt Ragged and inland to Merredin, growing in sandy, sandy-clay, and clay soils in woodlands and shrublands
(Pterostylis timothyi)
Next stop is one of Lucs locations where he has found Curly locks before. This location is in Neridup2 along Coolinup Road.
Luc found the Southern Curly-locks (Thelymitra uliginosa) in flower which confirmed this was the correct spot. They are found between Busselton and Esperance (This location is over 50kms northeast of Esperance) growing in seasonally damp areas surrounding peaty swamps and granite outcrops.
(Thelymitra uliginosa)
Pics of orchids found here as before in previous locations: Jug Orchid Western Tiny Blue Orchid Cream Spider Orchid
I have also included a pic of the typical habitat we find the Southern curly-locks growing in.
(Pterostylis recurva)(Cyanicula aperta)(Caladenia horistes)Typical habitat for Southern Curly-locks
Another snail orchid is found, however due to its stature and bloated appearance I believe it to be another new species for the day: The Fawn snail orchid (Pterostylis parva). Found between Albany and Eyre and inland to near Lake King, growing in sandy, sandy-clay and clay soils in woodlands, shrublands and soil pockets on granite outcrops.
As the name suggests they are located between Bremer and Israelite Bays growing in clay and sandy-clay soils in seasonally moist woodlands and shrublands.
(Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa)
A bright yellow orchid comes into view. The Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementum) is found between Wongan Hills and Israelite Bay growing in sandy-clay soils in open woodland and shrublands.
(Diuris decrementum)
Another donkey orchid found, however a different species thus time.
The South coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii)is found between Ongerup and Esperance growing in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in mallee woodlands and shrublands.
(Diuris brockmanii)
Another smaller spider orchid is found, which is also whitish in colour.
This one appears to be the Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians)which is found between Kalbarri and Esperance growing in coastal heaths, woodlands, mallee scrubs, on granite outcrops and around salt lake margins, usually on well-drained sandy loam soils.
(Caladenia varians)
Final orchid for this location is the Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea).
This orchid is found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay growing in a variety of woodland and heath habitats, usually on sandy soils.
(Caladenia discoidea)
We move onto what will be our last location of the day. This is another new location for me and is further up Coolinup Road so is now a Mt Ney1 location.
First up we are astounded as to the numbers of spider orchids found in a small open area under the trees.
The Cream spider orchid is found singularly and in clumps all over whilst the Rigid white spider orchid appears as isolated individuals.
Next up is an exciting find. A Blue china orchid is found with another one turning up within 30mins of searching. Not 100% sure of the ID so posted then separately on iNaturalist. Appears they may be 2 different species. First one is confirmed as the Boyatup china orchid (Cyanicula sp. “Boyatup”) which has yet to be formally named. As the name suggests they have a restricted range east of Esperance.
(Cyanicula sp “Boyatup”)
And the 2nd orchid is confirmed as being the Granite china orchid (Cyanicula nikulinskyae) which is found between Fitzgerald River and Cape Arid National Parks. As the name suggests they can be found growing in shallow soil pockets on granite outcrops, however, are also found growing amongst low shrubs or in open herbfields, on well drained gravelly loam soils.
(Cyanicula nikulinskyae)
Another orchid found in quite good numbers was the Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura).
These occur between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay growing in woodland, mallee scrubs and on granite outcrops, in sandy to gravelly and clay loam soils.
(Caladenia brevisura)
Stumbled across an orchid that commences its season in August, so it is not fully open, however pic taken for recording purposes.
The Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)is found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay, growing in heaths, woodland, open forest and malee scrubs in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils.
(Elythranthera brunonis)
Orchids found previously today were also found at this location. Pics taken for recording purposes.
Common bee orchid South-coast donkey orchid Small mantis orchid Blue beard
Well what a day it has been. I took my first pic at 9.47am and my final pic at 4.07pm. Time to head back to Esperance 28 species recorded with a Lutea thrown in Plus 2 species of China orchids in 1 location An amazing day Thanks for the company, Luc
