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 hotel breakfast, we leave Newdegate and head towards Dragon Rocks Nature Reserve. Numerous stops are made along the track and then we explore the camping area which includes the flat granite rocks.
First orchid found was the Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata), then further along the track a possible Dwarf zebra orchid (Caladenia pachychila) is found. Open to correction on this one. Other common orchids found along the way include the: Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis), Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta), Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa) Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea).
Along the track in we also come across our first standard looking spider orchids. Again, like yesterday I feel they are all variations of the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia).
Further common orchids were found at the flat granite outcrop area, including the Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava), Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) and the Ant orchid (Caladenia roei).
Also found along the way was the Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) and 2 Pterostylis orchids from different complexes. One is a spent orchid from the Vittata complex and the other is a budding orchid from the Rufa complex. Naming these is not possible.
Now onwards to our next stop, which was an unplanned stop at the intersection of Kulin-Holt Rock Road, where we found a memorial of the Holland Track, so pulled in for a photo op. Also took the opportunity to quickly explore the verge side vegetation for any orchids. Actually, found some including the Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) and more Chameleon spider orchids.
Pterostylis recurvaCaladenia dimidia
Heading west along the Kulin-Holt Rock Road we come to our planned lunch stop, Buckley’s Breakaway, which is located in the Un-named Nature Reserve No. WA27485. After a bite to eat we venture along the trail into the breakaways, which are an amazingly site. (Refer feature image)
Of course, our eyes are looking for orchids as we stroll along. We are not disappointed as we first come across the Sugar orchid, followed by the Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii) and an unknown Banded greenhood (Pterostylis sp.). I originally identified this as the Mallee banded greenhood (P. arbuscula) however it is listed as flowering in early winter so it may just be a short specimen of the Dark banded greenhood (P. sanguinea)which does flower into September and is also listed as occurring in this vicinity. Please provide comments to assist with the ID.
On the return journey 2 more orchids are found. The Brittle snail orchid (Pterostylis timothyi) and more Western wheatbelt donkey orchids.
Pterostylis timothyiDiuris brachtscapa
We move on towards Kukerin our planned overnight hotel stay. However, we first make a planned orchid hunt and bush walk at a spot called The Jam Patch, which is located at the old North Lake Grace tennis club.
Orchids found that had been found earlier today include the: Pink candy orchid, Western wheatbelt spider orchid, Little laughing leek orchid, Chameleon spider orchid.
New orchids for the day include the: Salt lake spider orchid (Caladenia exilis subsp. exilis)* Cream spider orchid (Caladenia horistes)* Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae)* Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis), Possible hybrid, parents unknown (Caladenia x)*
Orchids marked with * may not be separate species, possibly just C. dimidia, D. brachyscapa, or C. radialis so please correct me in the comments section if so.
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.
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
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.
We wake up to a fine, sunny but cold morning. As we are in no rush today, we have breakfast then go exploring the area for orchids, whilst our campers dry out in the sunshine. As we venture toward the granite rock, we discover a large number of Hairy-stemmed snail orchids (Pterostylis setulosa) growing under the sheoaks. Further snail orchids are found later on as well.
Also, at the base of the rock we find a Blue beard (Pheladenia deformis) which stands out in its vibrant blue colouring. Others are found later in the bush surrounding the rock.
From our previous visit to this location, we are aware most of the orchids are found in the bush surrounding the rock however we always have a bit of a climb just in case, plus the views are always amazing from atop these isolated granite outcrops. Usually growing on the rock as well as along the base are the bright yellow donkey orchids. Only a few were located this time round, so the Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae) is recorded for posterity.
Back on ground level we wander throughout the bush surrounding the rock and immediately come across numerous Drooping spider orchids (Caladenia radialis). These particular spider orchids are so called due to their usually drooping petals and sepals, including the dorsal sepals. They occur between Northampton and Jerramungup and are known to occur in clumps.
Another orchid found in good numbers was the Ant orchid (Caladenia roei)which is a common, widespread orchid. The labellum can range in colour from nearly all green to nearly all red. Their petals and sepals are said to be positioned in a crucifix shape.
Other random orchids were also found growing in the bushland. The common Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva)and a fertilised ?? Greenhood (Pterostylis sp.) represent their Genus whilst a lone Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata)and a newly unfurled spider orchid (Caladenia sp.) are the representatives for their Genuses. EDIT iNaturalist members have named my spider orchid the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia)
P. recurvaPterostylis sp.E. saccharataC. dimidia
We get back to camp and decide to have an early lunch before packing up the campers. Then Richard pulls out the mini-Magnums as a reward for surviving the adventurous road trip. We then head south and say goodbye at the Mount Walker Road intersection. It is now just Deb and me for the rest of the trip back to Esperance.
Knock up lunch including leftovers from Narembeen Cafe.Mini-Magnum Reward
We venture further south, making a left turn into Calzoni Road and drive slowly along looking for access to a granite rock I had discovered searching Google Maps. The access road is signposted Twine Reserve. We make our way down and park up to investigate. The rock is covered in pools of water and very thick damp patches of moss. It is growing in this moss that we find our first orchids. The Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) can grow up to 200mm in height and can have as many as 40 inverted flowers per plant.
We venture back into the vegetation/bush surrounding the rock and come across some more spider orchids. Now for the hard task of identifying them. However, after considering the location and the stance of the orchids they are most likely more Chameleon spider orchids (Caladenia dimida). Please correct me though if I am wrong.
One however did not meet the above criteria due to the size of the leaf and the overall yellow colouring. Please help me to name this one.
Similarly, to Roe Dam, other orchids are found, though usually only a single specimen, so I will record them together again. First up we have a Donkey orchid, then the Jug orchid, Sugar orchid, Greenhood, Ant orchid and Snail orchid are found.
D. hazeliaeP. recurvaE. saccharataP. sanguineaC. roeiP. setulosa
Moving back to Calzoni Road we head east to another chosen location. Gibb Rock is surrounded by farmland and has the obligatory water tank at its base. We park up at the tank and head into the bush at the base. Nothing to be found in the 10 mins of searching so we decide to push on. However, just before reaching the Triton Deb spies a lone Chameleon spider orchid growing in a patch of resurrection bush surrounding a pool of water. Whilst getting photos of this a Little laughing leek orchid also comes into view.
C. dimidiaP. gracileGibb Rock tank
Leaving Gibb Rock, we head south and call into Mulka’s Cave for a look. The handprints were visible which was great, however did not bother with looking for orchids as it was so weedy.
Turnoff to the cave and The Humps walk trailOpening at the back of the caveHand prints
We pass through Hyden and keep heading south, where we finally pull over at Lake Hurlstone Nature Reserve. First up we head across the road to the west and then venture towards the gully. First up we find some colourful donkey orchids. Now using the location as a guide, I feel these orchids are one of two possible species. However, the bright yellow colouring leads me to name them the Yellow granite donkey orchid as they are also found along drainage lines below rocky breakaways, which feels like the habitat we are currently in. The other option, Western wheatbelt donkey orchid, is listed as being pale yellow.
Further along we find some still flowering Dark banded greenhoods (Pterostylis sanguinea) which I am confident to name now, which I was not so with the greenhoods found earlier in the day. They start to flower in June and are recorded as flowering into September.
A couple of Sugar orchid are found, followed by 2 decent Jug orchids. Not many for what can be very common orchids. On the other side of the gully, I stumble across some small spider orchids. Possible two different species found. First up some look like the familiar Chameleon spider orchid. The other orchid may be the Ironcaps spider orchid (Caladenia paradoxa). It is described as having wispy, often pendulous petals and lateral sepals with a white, red striped labellum. (EDIT: Andrew Brown has recorded on my iNaturalist record that he believes my C. paradoxa to be C. dimidia)
E. saccharataE. saccharataP. recurvaP. recurvaC. dimidiaC. dimidiaC. dimidiaC. dimidiaC. paradoxa C. dimidiaC. paradoxa C. dimidiaC. paradoxa C. dimidiaC. paradoxa C. dimidiaC. paradoxa C. dimidiaC. paradoxa C. dimidia
A final small orchid is found over both sides of the road. The Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta)was only named in 2021. It differs to the Frog greenhood by the shape of the horn like structures on the labellum. This was a great little find to end our day.
It is now past 4pm so we grab one last view over the woodland to the lake then jump into the Triton and head down to Varley, where we set up camp in the so-called Chicken Ranch.
View toward Lake HurlstoneVarley’s chicken ranch – Free overnight campingBird watching during sunset
We are packed up and ready to leave by 10am on a beautiful sunny day. The Westonia Caravan Park is an awesome place to spend a few nights as the area around has so much to offer. Travelling south to the Great Eastern Highway, we turn west and make our way to Merredin. We decide to check out the reserve around Merredin Peak as this could be a great spot for some orchids. We were not disappointed.
We parked up at the RV Parking area closest to the rock as that was our main focus. However, to ensure we checked out a variety of habitat we venture along the Bush Trail first. (Due to time constraints, we only walked the trail I have highlighted in RED on the above map snip). Excitedly the first orchids found are some spider orchids. A trio of small clumps are found, with all appearing to be the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia), which is a common inland orchid of variable colourings; yellow, cream or pink-red flowers with white or pale-yellow labellum with red markings. Now you can see why these smaller spider orchids are so hard to positively identify.
Nearby we also find a little group of Ant orchids (Caladenia roei) growing. These are cheerful looking orchids, so are also commonly known as Clown orchids. They are a common widespread orchid, being found from Eurardy Station to Ravensthorpe.
Soon enough another spider orchid is found. These have a smooth-edged labellum with dense bands of calli plus the dorsal sepal is drooping. From these features it is the Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) which is also a common orchid across inland locations, from Northampton to Jerramungup.
Donkey orchids are found at the base of the granite rock growing in the wet areas. The Yellow granite donkey orchid (Diuris hazeliae) is a common inland orchid growing between Paynes Find and Salmon Gums. It is possible some may be a different species. Please let me if you think so.
Up on the rock in the mossy area we luckily find a few small Little laughing leek orchids (Prasophyllum gracile) growing. Not the best photos taken but still a record of their location. These small orchids are very widespread, growing between Shark Bay and Eyre. They grow on granite inland but in scrublands, woodlands and swamps nearer the coast.
Now we did come across many more spider orchids on the track, but I am struggling to identify them confidently. They range in colour, stance and size of both flower and leaf. For that reason, I will post the best pictures taken and will for now just call them Caladenia sp. Any ideas on the actual species please let me know and I will post an edit. EDIT 2 iNaturalist members have agreed they are all colour variations of the Chameleon spider orchid.
We move on as it’s now after 12 and lunch is calling as is the need to get some kilometres driven. Prior to leaving Merredin though we have to grab a look at and take a photo of the painted silos.
Leaving Merredin, we head west along the highway to Hines Hill where we turn south, down Hines Hill Road. It is at the intersection of Jura West Road that we pull over and check out a patch of vegetation. We all head off in different directions and my first orchid found is the common Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa). Not common here today but some others were found later in the search. Another Pterostylis orchid is found but has already been fertilised and has closed up. The Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula)is a recently named species which as the name suggests is restricted to mallee regions. It is listed occurring from Dalwallinu to the Eyre Bird Observatory.
P. setulosaP. setulosaP. setulosaP. setulosaP. arbuscula
Deb as usual has the more exciting find. She comes across some small spider orchids. However, after the initial excitement it appears they are all Chameleon spider orchids. Nice to find, but a new species would have been great.
Chameleon spider orchids in the breeze
And to end the search of the area, a record of the one and only Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta)is still to be posted, so here it is. It was found in the middle of all the spider orchids. As the common name suggests, these little guys only grow to 15omm in height and the flowers are 20 – 25 mm across.
C. aperta
Past lunch time and we need something to eat, so off we head into Bruce Rock. Unable to secure a counter meal at the local pub, we venture down to the local cafe, Bruce Rock Cafe (Love that Food) where we were surprised with the choices available. We sat outside to eat as the weather was mild. Well fed, we then move on.
With no real direction planned we head into Narembeen, so that Richard can change his tyre, on a solid flat surface, as the spinout north of Bullfinch seems to have caused the tyre to wear very badly. Narembeen has a great overnight campsite in the town, but we decide to head out to Roe Dam for our last joint overnight camp of the trip. We don’t have the site to ourselves, but we set up as best we can, light a campfire and enjoy the wonderful evening.
We have booked for 2 nights at the Westonia Caravan Park, so today we plan on checking out some nearby locations for possible orchids. The morning is very cold, in fact, ice has formed on the tonneau cover of Richard’s Triton. We again use the kitchen facilities and enjoy bacon and eggs on avo toast with hollandaise sauce. The sun is shining so we lay out all our wet belongings from yesterday to dry. We head into town first to check out with the shire if their local roads are open. They are all open, so we are able to follow our plan. We next call into a cafe to pick up takeaway lunch for later and a coffee for now, plus some gifts for the grandkids.
Leaving town, we head north to Geelakin Rock, where we find the usual large water tank which is filled by runoff from the granite rock.
Geelakin Tank
In the first patch of bush, we immediately find orchids. First up we find the beautiful Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis)which has a widespread distribution from Northampton to Fitgerald National Park. They are a distinct spider orchid, with usually dropping petals and sepals and a labellum with smooth edges or with a few short fringe elements.
A different species then pops into view. The bright cheerful Blue beard (Pheladenia deformis), is a common widespread orchid which ranges from Kalbarri down to Israelite Bay then eastwards into SA and beyond. It is easy to see where the common name came from, with the many labellum calli.
Amazingly only one snail orchid was found in our search of this rock. The Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa) is a common inland orchid. Common maybe but my one and only photo is not real good, but I had to record its discovery.
Luckily the next orchid stood out in the grasses however this does not equate to easy identification, especially with these smaller spider orchid species. However, using both Florabase and the Atlas of Living Australia as references, I will be naming theses first spider orchids the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia), which is a common, variable inland species.
C. dimidiaC. dimidia leaves with reddish stems.C. dimidia
Another small spider orchid appears to be the Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians) due to its whiter colouring and pendulous petals and sepals. As the name suggests they are a common orchid which grows between Kalbarri and Esperance.
C. variansC. varians hairy thin leavesC. varians
Then one of the unique types of spider orchids is found. The small Ant orchid (Caladenia roei) is found growing next to one of the Drooping spider orchids. They can grow as high as 300mm however this specimen and others found were much shorter.
C. roei and C. radialisC. roeiC. roei
After a good 45 mins exploring this rock and surrounds, we decide to move onto our next planned stop, Warrachuppin Rock. At the intersection of the Koorda – Bullfinch Road we pull over at the Warralakin Hall for a photo as it is a rustic corrugated iron building. Warrachuppin Rock unfortunately is behind a fence so we could not reach it and after a quick search around the scrub I only located some Hairy-stemmed snail orchids.
So onwards to our final planned stop of the day, Baladjie Rock. At least this spot is set up for visitors. As expected, the first orchids found are more snail orchids. Some had shorter lateral sepals and less hairy stems, but the location leads me to name them all Hairy-stemmed snail orchids.
After 20 minutes of nothing but the occasional snail orchid I finally find another species for the day growing on the rock. The small Dainty blue orchid (Cyanicula amplexans) is growing in a sheltered nook on the eastern side of the rock. These beautiful little orchids grow between Kalbarri and Norseman during the months of August through October.
Back down on level ground I come across a couple of Ant orchids (C. roei) growing in the cleared patches of the scrub.
Then a trio of spider orchids is discovered, standing in isolation, as no others are found. I am struggling to place a definate ID to these ones. They are most likely more Chameleon spider orchid; however, any ideas would be greatly accepted.
Then another blue orchid comes into view. This lone specimen is a Blue Beard which is a monotypic species. Not great shots taken of this orchid, but I will post 2 images just for the record.
The final species found was the bright yellow donkey orchid. The species found at this location should be the Yellow Granite Donkey Orchid (Diuris hazeliae), so that is what I am identifying these ones as. These are a common inland orchid found from Paynes Find to Salmon Gums.
It’s after 3pm when we finally decide to head back to Westonia. The views from the top of the rock were amazing. This picnic area and rock are not a part of the adjacent Nature Reserve which I find interesting. We enjoy another night at the amazing Westonia Caravan Park.
