Orchid Hunting Adventures, Koorda to Southern Cross: Pub Crawl Day 7

List of Orchids Found, Numerous days, Road Trip, Western Australian Orchids, Wundowlin NR

13/09/2024

Breakfast in Koorda before we head east toward Mukinbudin, where we make our first orchid hunting stop at Wundowlin Nature Reserve.
Orchids discovered at this location include:
Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera),
Dainty blue orchid (Cyanicula amplexans),
Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile)
and
Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia).

Passing through Mukinbudin we come across an amazing mural featuring black cockatoos and Blue beard orchids, painted by Tammi de Rooy @tammiderooyart, which by the way is the feature image of this post.
Next, we head southeast towards Westonia.

On the way we make another orchid hunting stop at Boodallin Soak located in the Westonia Common. After a quick check of the well Bob n Jan head into Westonia for an explore whilst we explore the granite outcrop.
Orchids found include:
Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae),
Little laughing leek orchid,
Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila),
Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica),
Dainty blue orchid,
Slender rufous greenhood (Pterostylis macrosceles)
and
Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea).

After arriving in Westonia we enjoy lunch with Bob and Jan at the Cafe/Supermarket. They then go to check out the museum whilst we explore the Woodlands & Wildflowers Heritage Trail for orchids. This walk trail is also contained in the Westonia Common.
Orchids found include:
Dainty blue orchid with an Albino form found,
Little laughing leek orchid,
Ant / Clown orchid (Caladenia roei),
Granite sun orchid (Thelymitra petrophila),
Spoon-lipped rufous greenhood (Pterostylis spathulata) and
Spider orchids of the Filamentosa complex.
Unable to identify with a high probability of correctness, so have posted 4 pics of the various forms found.

Nearly 3pm so we had better keep moving. We hit the Great Eastern Hwy and venture eastward as far as Bodallin¹where we make another exploration stop.
Many more Filamentosa complex spider orchids are found.
I’ll not attempt to name them, but I’ll use iNaturalist.com for assistance and make edits as needed. Other than C. microchila and C. dimidia already listed today other possible species are:
Glistening spider orchid (Caladenia incensum),
Banded Ironstone spider orchid (Caladenia saxicola),
Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians).

Other orchids found include the
Dainty blue orchid,
Ant / Clown orchid,
Little laughing leek orchid,
Yellow granite donkey orchid,
Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa),
and
Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta).

It is nearly 4pm so we move onto our next overnight accommodation, where we again catch up with Jan and Bob.
The Palace Hotel in Southern Cross was a comfortable hotel with great meals. We hit the sack content.

Orchid diversity in Coomalbidgup and East Munglingup

Western Australian Orchids

21/08/2024

As we ventured north last trip, we decided to head west. We want to see if the species found differ in any way.

Our first stop is within the location of Coomalbidgup³.

The first orchid spied was a double-headed king spider type orchid. Identification is difficult. This is due to the recorded presence of both the Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora) and the Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana) in this vicinity. They are also very similar in appearance.

As the later species is listed as flowering in September it is most likely the former. The dark colouring alludes to this ID as well.

A yellow-coloured orchid is the next found. The Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) is a common orchid found between Northampton and Israelite Bay.

The next orchid was found in large numbers, as it was last year in this same location.
Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia) are found flowering from August to early-December. They range from Kalbarri to Israelite Bay growing in sandy and sandy clay soils.

A single specimen of the Lort River snail orchid (Pterostylis lortensis) is spotted. It was found when walking back to the Triton, growing in the track made by illegal wood cutters.
Theses orchids flower in August and September only, between Boxwood Hill and Israelite Bay.

Then back at the Triton I spied a less colourful king spider orchid. Could this one be a Heberle’s spider orchid?
Please share your thoughts on the ID

Moving on we decide to check out a new location near the Coomalbidgup⁵ townsite.
Driving, then walking, then driving, then walking we finally find some orchids.
Red Beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) is found growing in the mounded verges of the track.
They flower from August to October and occur between Shark and Israelite Bays.

A few Western tiny blue orchids (Cyanicula aperta) were found spread over the site.
These small blue orchids flower August to early-October between Dumbleyung and Mt Ragged.

Deb was driving and looking to the right of the track. I was walking along the left side of the track.
So, as luck would have it, I came across the only specimen found of the Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea).
These orchids flower August to early-October as well. Their range however is larger, Kalbarri to Israelite Bay.

Another snail orchid is also found; however, it is a different species to that found earlier.
I feel we have found the Ravensthorpe snail orchid (Pterostylis grossa). These orchids are found between Millers Point and Esperance during the months of August and September.

Moving south to the west of town we find the common Cowslip orchid. A budding Purple enamel orchid is also found. None found flowering unfortunately.

Towards the end of our track, we come across some large white spider orchids in flower.
From the location I will be calling them the Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa).
These large orchids flower from August to early-October over the range; Bremer Bay to Cape Arid

The final orchid found at this location was an unexpected but exciting find. In a winter wet area with gravelly topsoil, we found a few buds before finding a sole flowering specimen.
The Southern curly locks (Thelymitra uliginosa) is found flowering during August and September. Its range extends form Busselton to Esperance, with rare finds north to Perth.

Leaving the Coomalbidgup townsite location on a high note, we venture further west to our next Coomalbidgup⁶ location. Turning north up Beltana Road, we pull over on the side of the road as we see some large white spider orchids.

The first orchid photographed though is a hybrid, which is exciting. One of the parents would be the Esperance white spider orchid as we find many more of them.

Also found at this location was the Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea).
These orchids range in colour from pale to vivid pink and flower late-June to September.
They occur between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay in more inland locations than the related Candy orchid.

A couple of snail orchids at the end of their season are also found. Looking at their stems I feel they may be the Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa).
These orchids flower July to September between Nerren Nerren Station and Balladonia.

A little further up the road we spy some yellow in the bush. Upon closer inspection we are thrilled to have found some donkey orchids in flower.

From the location I will name some of these orchids the Green Range donkey orchid (Diuris littoralis).
They flower from July to early-September between Denmark and Esperance.
However, others could be the South coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii). These flower from June to early-August between Ongerup and Esperance.
These orchids have white age spots to their petals (due to earlier flowering season) and a broader labellum.
Please provide your thoughts on the ID’s.

We do a U turn and head back to the Hwy. Heading west we pull some 20 metres into a track leading north, which is another Coomalbidgup⁷ location.
Excitedly whilst having a bite to eat for lunch I spy a bird orchid alongside the track.
Upon closer inspection it appears to be the Dwarf bird orchid (Pterostylis galgulus).
These orchids flower in August and September between Northampton and Munglinup. This location is only 20kms east of Munglinup townsite which is an acceptable deviation.

Going further afield orchids are few and far between. Cowslip orchids are found but not in great numbers. Pictures taken for recording purposes.

Another yellow orchid is found in better numbers, though only in a restricted area at the location.
The Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementum) is found singly as well as in small groups. Flowering occurs from August to early-October between Wongan Hills and Israelite Bay.

As I was walking over to Deb’s location to take pics of her many bee orchids, I stumbled across some very small leaves.
Looking at the leaves more closely they appear to belong to an orchid of the Drakaea genus. EDIT: Andrew Brown has commented on my iNaturalist record that they are the non-flowering leaves of Eriochilus scaber. Thoughts

Whilst I’m busy taking pics of the bee orchids Deb finds a white spider orchid. I finally catch her up and grab some pics of what I believe to be the Esperance white spider orchid.
The first orchid found appears to have had its petals and sepals nibbled. However, others found on the west side of the track have the usual long pendulous petals and sepals.

Moved on to our next stop, which ended up being 1km along Neds Corner Road. This did not prove to be very productive with only the one orchid being found.
It was a very poor specimen of the Esperance king spider orchid I believe.

We did not hang around for long and moved on to our East Munglinup⁶ location on Farmers Road. At this spot, again only one orchid was found. This time though it was a Western tiny blue orchid.

Onto another location this time along Jonegatup Road being another new East Munglinup⁷ location.
First up we find a few more Western tiny blue orchids.

A new orchid for the day is discovered on what appears to be the old road.
The Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) occurs between Lancelin and Esperance. Flowering during the months of August to early-November.

Snail orchids are found in various spots over this location. They appear to be more Ravensthorpe snail orchids.
Pics for recording purposes. EDIT: Andrew Brown has responded to my iNaturalist record that he feels they are P. Setulosa

On a pushed-up mound we come across the Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata). These orchids grow between Paynes Find and Israelite Bay during August and September.
Moving back to the old road I nearly step on a snake. Scary stuff. Upon posting the pic taken on iNaturalist I can name it a Bardick (Echiopsis curta).

Spent greenhood orchids found as well, though the numerous small spider orchids are a treat.
Their labellum size and the spreading habit of the petals and lateral sepals suggest they are the Cream spider orchid (Caladenia horistes).
They flower between the Fitzgerald River National Park and Balladonia from August to early-October.

We have quick check of the Young River crossing before moving on to our final stop of the day.

We venture east to Neds Corner Road. We head south. Then, we make a stop on the road verge at a recently burnt area. Recorded as Coomalbidgup⁸ location.
As with the last 2 locations, the first orchid found is the Western tiny blue orchid.

Next a single specimen of the Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila) is found.
These small spider orchids flower between Kondinin and Madura from July to early-October.
The relatively small labellum and stiffly held petals are distinguishing features.

Another solitary orchid is found, this one though is blue in colour.
The Blue beard (Pheladenia deformis) is found between Murchison River and Israelite Bay.
Flowering occurs from late-May to October.

Now the one orchid we were hoping to find in this burnt out area was the Pink bunny orchid (Eriochilus scaber subsp. scaber).
Luck was on our side as we did find some small patches of them in flower.
These orchids are found between Jurien Bay and Cape Arid National Park, with flowering usually after a summer bushfire.
Season is from July to early-September.

Another orchid that favours a summer bushfire is the Red beaks orchid. However, we were only able to find one in bud as they only start flowering in August.

It is nearly 4.30pm so we decide to make tracks for home.
Not too bad a day. We found some 21 species. We also saw leaves and buds for orchids yet to come. Plus, one possible hybrid.

Exploring Orchid Diversity north of Esperance

Helms Arboretum, Nature Reserves, Swan Lagoon NR, Western Australian Orchids

17/08/2024

So today we decide to head north of Esperance to see what the season has produced. We don’t get far before we pull into our first stop of the day.
Helms Arboretum is always a favourite stop.

Starting off small the first orchid found was the Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana).

These orchids are found growing between Lancelin and Esperance. They have only recently started flowering as their season commences in August and extends to early-November.

They are recorded as growing to heights of 400mm which would be amazing to find. Our specimens are more around the 200mm range.

Next our targeted orchid the Grass-leafed spider orchid (Caladenia graminifolia) was found.

These orchids also commence their flowering in August, then until September only.

They range from Mt Manypeaks to Israelite Bay so appears restricted to the south coast.

The Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora) was represented by a single specimen found nearby the aforementioned orchids.

This king spider orchid is located from Bremer Bay to Cape Arid. Its season is mid-August to October.

We don’t stay longer at Helms as we only popped in here to find a flowering Grass-leafed spider orchid.

Our next stop is near Gibson¹⁴. We walk along the tracks and every so often we venture into the surrounding scrub.

A solitary Blue beard (Pheladenia deformis) is found first.

These orchids flower from late-May to October.

In WA they occur between Murchison River to Israelite Bay.

As this area has been burnt in the last few years, we were still able to find some Redbeaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) in flower.

Redbeaks flower from August to October.

They are found from Shark Bay to Israelite Bay, which is one of the largest ranges for an orchid in WA.

Throughout the area checked we came across a few patches of the Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava).

This subspecies is the most widespread and ranges between Northampton and Israelite Bay.
It also has the longest flowering season; July to early-December.

There are 4 subspecies of the Cowslip orchid. The other 3 are restricted to much smaller ranges that all overlap the range of the subspecies found around Esperance.

We did make an exciting find of a hammer orchid leaf in bud.
From the leaf I believe it will be the King-In-His-Carriage orchid (Drakaea glyptodon).

These orchids flower August to October over a range between Eneabba and Esperance.

However, the most prolific orchid found at this location was the Esperance king spider orchid.

It was found either as a lonely specimen or in good size groups.

If any of the flowers pictured are the similar C. heberleana, please comment on this post.

We move further north up the highway to another location in the Gibson area ¹⁵.
A gate had been installed which precluded us for heading down the track. We instead checked out the verge and walked a bit into the scrub.

Hiding under the verge scrub we find the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva).

This unusual but common orchid is found between Geraldton and Israelite Bay.

Flowering season is only from August to October

Deb has her eye in for spying orchids as she stumbles across an exciting find for this location.

The first orchid found is so small. Refer pic with the tip of my index finger for size comparison.

The Reaching spider orchid (Caladenia arrecta) is so named due to its erect petals.

Found between Bindoon and Israelite Bay.

Flowering season from late-July to mid-October.

We now move onto a new location, further north. We turn left at Hawkey Road them immediately right into Swan Lagoon Road. Our first stop ¹⁶ along this road is down a track in some bushland.
We take this slowly and regularly get out to walk along and into the surrounding scrub. It is along this track that we pull over and have lunch from the back of the Triton.

The orchid that stands out for this location is the Western Tiny Blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta). It was found in huge numbers.

They are found flowering from August to early-October between Dumbleyung and Mt Ragged.

They have horizontally held petals and lateral sepals and can grow up to 150mm in height.

Another very similar orchid is also found, however not is such great numbers.

The Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) flowers in August and September between Paynes Find and Israelite Bay.

A small number of Midget greenhoods (Pterostylis mutica) were found along the way.

These orchids flower from July to October between Wongan Hills and the SA border.

They can grow to 200mm in height and can have up to 15 small green flowers.

A further Pterostylis orchid is found in small numbers.

The Brittle snail orchid (Pterostylis timothyi) flowers July to September between Lake Cronin and Esperance.

Some distinctive features are having a small rosette of pointed prominently veined leaves and only one or two stem leaves.

The we find one of the newest named Greenhoods. The Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula) was formally named in 2018.

The flower between Dalwallinu and Eyre bird observatory during the months June and July.

As we are now in August this could explain why we only found two still in flower.

Amazingly we find a Grass-leafed spider orchid in this new location. So that makes a third spot we have found this orchid. Helms and Stokes NP are the other locations.

Another orchid of the Pterostylis genus is found. Only one specimen found, so was very lucky to have spotted it.

This time it is the Dwarf shell orchid (Pterostylis brevichila) which flowers from July to September.

It has an inland southeastern range, occurring from Hyden to Mt Ragged.

The Jug orchid is found at numerous spots in this location.

Pictures taken for registration purposes.

Just before we decide to have a break for lunch, we finally find a donkey orchid.

There are 2 possible ID’s for these orchids. They could be the South Coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii) or the Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae).

Flowering is June to early August and Aug to September respectively.
So, the ones that already have finished flowers could very well be the former.

As both are recorded for the Grass Patch area any assistance in positive ID would be appreciated.

Note the brightness of the yellow is greatest with the mobile phone pics.

Whilst eating lunch we still explore nearby.
It is here we find some different orchids than found previously today.

Due to the location, they must be the Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima).

These orchids flower from August to early-October between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay.

The flowers are green, yellow and red in colour and can grow up to 350mm in height.

The prominently upcurved lateral sepals are distinctive to most mantis orchids.

Back on Swan Lagoon Road we travel further north and pull into another track which is much shorter, so we walk it. ¹⁷

Blown away by the numbers of Western tiny blue orchids found.

I have posted a video below to show how many occur in say 1 square metre.

So many Western tiny blue orchids

Another previously found orchid is also found in greater numbers.

The Midget greenhood rears it lime green coloured head again.

Also found was another Mallee banded greenhood.

Moving further north again we make a final stop in the Swan Lagoon Nature Reserve.
Initially we turn up nothing in the lagoon area however further afield our luck changes.

Seems a regular occurrence today. Blue beards are also found in greater numbers than earlier today.

Well, we finally start finding the small spider orchids in flower. Actually, we find loads of them, and they may possibly be 2 species.

One is definitely the Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila).

This orchid is a common southeastern inland species. It is found between Kondinin and Madura.

Flowers occur July through to early-October.

If another species is apparent from the pictures supplied, can you please enlighten me. I am swaying to C. dimidia or C. horistes

Intermixed with the wispy style spider orchids we also find the Short sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura) standing proud.

These orchids flower between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay during August and September.

The common name refers to the shortened sepal tips, when compared to the similar C. doutchiae.

Larger spider orchids appear as we progress with our exploration of this Nature Reserve.

Due to the shorter length of the petals and sepals, plus the dull white colouring I believe they are the Reclining spider orchid (Caladenia cruscula).

These orchids are found between Salmon Gums and Mt Ragged / Israelite Bay.

Flowering during August and September.

More donkey orchids are found near the large spider orchids.

Positive ID again not attempted. Could be D. hazeliae or D. brockmanii. Thoughts??

Midget and Mallee greenhood orchids were also found at this location. Pics for recording purposes.

Our final orchid of the day was the small Sigmoid spider orchid (Caladenia sigmoidea) which was very exciting.

The name “Sigmoid” refers to the ‘S’ shaped labellum tip.

These orchids grow between Mt Jackson and Mt Ragged.

Flowering during the months of July, August and September.

They are very small, ranging from 50 to 150mm in height. Their colouring blends into their surroundings. This makes finding them difficult.

We were blown away by the numbers found. Previously, we have only found them solo or as spread-out isolated specimens.

Well, this hunt was a great success. So many orchids found, with some in huge numbers.
The highlights were the patches of Western tiny blue orchids and the large number of Sigmoid spider orchids found.

At least 20 species found!!

25/08/2023 ….. So finally, our 2023 Road Trip commences …..

Nature Reserves, Numerous days, Road Trip, Victoria Rock NR, Western Australian Orchids

Well, it has finally arrived. The day we head off on our 2023 road trip. This year will be a little different as we will be travelling from Laverton in the eastern goldfields to Coober Pedy in South Australia. As we will be travelling the more remote desert areas, orchids will not play a part of this adventure other than in the first few and last few days of our adventure.

Heading north from Esperance we make at stop at Bromus Dam where we check out McPherson Rock. We are amazed to find 5 different orchid species in flower on and around the rock plus an extra species on the track back to the dam.

Yellow granite donkey orchid

(Diuris hazeliae)

Hairy-stemmed snail orchid

(Pterostylis setulosa)

Cowslip orchid

(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)

Sugar orchid

(Ericksonella saccharata)

Western wispy spider orchid

(Caladenia microchila)

Midget greenhood

(Pterostylis mutica)

We move on further north and head west at Norseman to Disappointment Rock, where we set up our overnight camp. After we had collected firewood and started the fire, I climbed up the rock and found some orchids as the sun was setting.

Yellow granite donkey orchid

(Diuris hazeliae)

Hairy-stemmed snail orchid

(Pterostylis setulosa)

26/08/2023 ….. 2023 Road Trip Day 2

After a good night’s sleep in our Cot Tent, we enjoy breakfast before heading north. We arrive at the Victoria Rock Nature Reserve where we will have a bite to eat for lunch, then go exploring the rock for some orchids.

Hairy-stemmed snail orchid

(Pterostylis setulosa)

Ant orchid

(Caladenia roei)

Granite sun orchid

(Thelymitra petrophila)

Yellow granite donkey orchid

(Diuris hazeliae)

Sugar orchid

(Ericksonella saccharata)

Dainty blue orchid

(Cyanicula amplexans)

Now it is time to move north to catch up with Richard, Sandy and Noel, who will be our travel buddies for the next few weeks. We say goodbye to our beloved orchids until we return to WA in September.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11/09/2022 ….. Sunny Sunday

Sunday Drive, Western Australian Orchids

What better way to spend a beautiful sunny spring September day that to go exploring for orchids. A decision needs to be made on which direction: North, East, West or maybe a combination.

East wins the day, so off we head directly to Condingup townsite, as we wanted to see if the Drakaea leaves had produced orchids. We were in luck, as the King-in-his-carriage (Drakaea glyptodon) was in flower. These interesting looking orchids are found flowering from Eneabba to Esperance during the months of Aug, Sept and Oct. Condingup is in the Shire of Esperance and approx 70kms east of the Esperance townsite.

More orchids from different genera are found in this location as well. Caladenia is represented by 3 different species. Firstly, the Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa) is found. As the name suggests this orchid ranges from Bremer Bay to Israelite Bay, so includes a vast area of the Esperance shire. Then the equally large Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana) which ranges between Augusta and Cape Arid, is found scattered around. A single specimen of the Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila) with a wonky labellum is the last species found. These smaller spider orchids are found over a much wider range, from Kondinin and Madura.

Next, we found various orchids, each representing their genus. First up the Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis) which ranges from Kalbarri and Israelite Bay. Then the Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) which ranges from Shark Bay to Israelite Bay and finally the Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementa) which ranges from Perth to east of Esperance.

Next location checked is one our spots along Parmango Road, a few clicks east of Condingup. Parking up the Triton, we go for a quick look and find some Common bee orchids and a few Heberle’s spider orchid, which were both located back in Condingup previously.

Not a hugely fruitful location, so we move up a few hundred metres to another favoured location and immediately encounter many more orchids. First up are more Common bee orchids, in good numbers here and further along the track.

Luckily some new species for the day are encountered as well. First up is the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) which is a widespread orchid, being found from Geraldton to Israelite Bay. Then the much smaller Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) is found, with these orchids being found between Lancelin and Esperance. Another new species for the day is the ever popular and spectacular Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) which is one of the most, if not the most widespread orchid in WA. Including the 4 subspecies, it is found south of the line Shark Bay to Israelite Bay. Then a very local new species is found, the Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora). These orchids are found between Bremer Bay and Cape Arid.

Other new species for the day include the Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea) and the Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera) which both range from north of Geraldton to Israelite Bay. Then some others found previously today are found again, including Red beaks, the Purple enamel orchid and the Western wispy spider orchid.

This was a much better location, with 10 species found, however we need to keep moving. So off to a new location, along Fisheries Road in Howick. We drive slowly down the track and occasionally spy an orchid, at which time we have a scout around for more orchids, before moving on again. This location proves rather fruitful with 8 species found, including 2 new ones for the day. First up I will mention new species found; Beautiful donkey orchid (Diuris pulchella) which is an easterly occurring orchid, found between Salmon Gums, Esperance and Balladonia. The smaller Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta) is also found over a larger easterly range, Dumbleyung to Mt Ragged.

The other orchids found at this location were the Cowslip orchid, Western wispy spider orchid, Esperance king spider orchid, Lemon-scented sun orchid, Jug orchid and Esperance white spider orchid.

Now our final location for the day, is one of our favourite spots. The area around Boyatup Hill never disappoints. I will start with the new species for the day, then confirm the findings of those previously found earlier today, as also being located this far east of Esperance.

The Custard orchid (Theymitra villosa) is a nice yellow coloured sun orchid which is found flowering between Northampton and Israelite Bay. Then we have the equally brightly coloured Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) which flowers slightly further north in Kalbarri then south to Israelite Bay.

Another 2 new species for the day include the Rabbit orchid (Leptoceras menziesii) which is another orchid that ranges from Israelite Bay, but only to Geraldton this time and the Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians) which is listed between Kalbarri and Esperance. The maps do show occurrences east of Esperance; however, I have posted images on iNaturalist asking fellow Citizen Scientists to assist me in identification.

Now to list the orchids previously found at earlier locations, that were also found around Boyatup hill. Purple enamel orchid, Lemon-scented sun orchid, Esperance king spider orchid, Heberle’s spider orchid, Cowslip orchid, Dancing spider orchid, Beautiful donkey orchid, Common bee orchid and a lone fertilised Jug orchid. EDIT: Fellow citizen scientists from my iNaturalist post have advised the Bee orchid (Diuris laxiflora) is the correct ID, so it is not the Common bee, which makes this another species found for the day.

Now you can see why this location is a favourite of ours. With at least 13 species found with a white variant of the Pink candy orchid being a special find. Well, it has been a long day, and we have an hour or so drive home. Time to reflect on the 17 EDIT: 18 species found today, making east of Esperance a special spot for orchids.

27/08/2022 ….. Out East – Part 4 – Condingup Peak

Condingup Water Reserve, Day Trip, Other Reserves, Western Australian Orchids

Fisheries Road location proved quite unproductive; however, Condingup Peak and lookout should be an improvement.

Reclining spider orchid (Caladenia cruscula)

Distribution: Salmon Gums to Mt Ragged

Plant Height: 180-250mm

Beautiful donkey orchid (Diuris pulchella)

Distribution: Salmon Gums to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 200-500mm

Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae)

Distribution: Paynes Find to Balladonia

Plant Height: 100-300mm

Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila)

Distribution: Kondinin to Madura

Plant Height: 90-250mm

Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementa)

Distribution: Wongan Hills to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 80-300mm

We decide to move on, however pull over on the side of Fisheries Road, still in the reserve though and find a couple of spider orchids.

Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians)

Distribution: Kalbarri and Esperance

Plant Height: 150-300mm

Reclining spider orchid

We now move into Condingup townsite and check out the land between Fisheries Road and Parish Street.

27/08/2022 ….. Out East – Part 2 – Beaumont Nature Reserve

Beaumont NR, Day Trip, Nature Reserves, Western Australian Orchids

It is now past 11am, so we move on to our next location, Beaumont Nature Reserve. We find orchids already found today plus some new species and one hybrid, which is exciting.

Western wispy spider orchid (Caladenia microchila)

Distribution: Kondinin to Madura

Plant Height: 150-300mm

South coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii)

Distribution: Ongerup to Esperance

Plant Height: 150-300mm

Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata)

Distribution: Paynes Find to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 50-150mm

Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementa)

Distribution: Wongan Hills to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 80-300mm

Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana)

Distribution: Lancelin to Esperance

Plant Height: 150-400mm

Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)

Distribution: Northampton to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 80-200mm

Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia)

Distibution: Kalbarri to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 120-450mm

Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa)

Distribution: Bremer Bay to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 200-500mm

Rigid white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. rigidula)

Distribution: Salmon Gums to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 250-400mm

Beautiful donkey orchid (Diuris pulchella)

Distribution: Salmon Gums to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 200-500mm

Video link

Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile)

Distribution: Shark Bay to Eyre

Plant Height: 60-250mm

Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians)

Distribution: Kalbarri to Esperance

Plant Height: 150-300mm

Spectacular spider orchid (Caladenia x spectabilis)

Distribution: Kalbarri to Esperance

Plant Height: 100-350mm

Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva)

Distribution: Geraldton to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 300-900mm

?? snail orchid (Pterostylis sp)

We make our way back to the Triton and have ourselves some lunch. It was whilst eating lunch we spied the nice Jug orchids flowering, which was great as prior to this we had only found a Jug orchid that had been someone else’s lunch 🙂

From here we head back to Fisheries Road and check out a spot I had checked earlier in the year. Not much found but you never know until you check.

27/08/2022 ….. Out East – Part 1 – Parmango Road

Day Trip, Western Australian Orchids

One week back at work after our 2022 road trip to Mt Augustus, we need to check out our local orchid haunts. So where to? Let us travel east of Esperance and see what is still flowering in late August.

First up we drive as far east as we will go today and call into our favourite spot along Parmango Road. After parking up, we waste no time as orchids are already spotted.

Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementa)

Distribution: Wongan Hills to Israelite Bay

Plant Height: 80-300mm