Terrestrial, deciduous orchid with a fleshy rhizome, rounded pseudo-bulbs and several broad leaves.
Weed Category:
Weed:
No
Form or habit:
Orchid
Family:
Orchidaceae
Leaf:
Three to five arise at the top of a short stem, uppermost leaf is the largest. Leaves ovate, 10-35 x 3-9cm, pleated longitundinally. Petiole up to 15cm long.
Flower conspicuous:
Conspicuous
Flower colour:
Pink
Flower description:
Raceme of about eight to 10 crowded pink flowers, arises from a new pseudo-bulb, separate from the leaf bearing stem. Flower stalk is initially erect but by the time the flowers are mature it has bent right over, which straightens after fertilisation. Summer.
Fruit conspicuous:
Conspicuous
Fruit colour:
Green
Fruit:
Fruit description:
Green capsules, 2-5cm long, football shaped with marked longitudinal ribs.
Habitat:
Grassland, open forest, woodland.
Distribution
Queensland, Northern Territory, New Guinea.
Food source for:
Toxicity:
No toxicity known
Origin:
Australia, New Guinea.
Notes:
A hardy species that is sometimes found growing in road drains and culverts. It is one of the most commonly encountered orchids locally. It is the only species in this genus in Australia. The tuberous rhizomes are edible. Propagate from seed. Pollinated by native bees.
Information sources:
Melzer R. & Plumb J. (2007) Plants of Capricornia.
