Native Orchids

I find myself becoming increasingly fascinated by local orchids. 

I hear that this can be a terminal condition.

Pterostylis curta

Blunt Greenwood Orchid

One of about 30 species of the genus Pterostylis found in the Sydney District. It is found in cool, shady gullies and forms extensive colonies.

One of its most endearing traits is its pollinating mechanism. If you lightly touch the labellum when it's pointing forwards, it will spring back into the flower, taking a visiting insect with it.




Dendrobium kingianum

Pink Rock Orchid

Not local to my region, this orchid comes from a little further north. This is the first year that neither the insects nor the possums got the flowers!

This photo might be a little misleading. The flowers are small--only about 2cm in width. Very delicate.

 

 

 

  

Dendrobium speciosum

Rock Orchid  

Not mine, but in my parent's garden. It's local to this area and can be found growing profusely on tree branches in the bush. It has a sultry, sweet scent.   

I submitted images of this specimen to Botany Photo of the Day, and it was accepted! (I love the slogan of that site: "In science, beauty. In beauty, science. Daily." Perfect.)

 



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