30/07/2023 ….. A week spent wandering – Part 9 – The End

Numerous days, Road Trip, Western Australian Orchids

After making and eating our complimentary breakfast, we pack up the Triton on a beautiful sunny winters morning and make tracks towards home. Overall, we enjoyed our stay at the Newdegate Hotel, plus it was great value for money.

About 15kms into our drive we make our first stop and check out the verge vegetation which is quite wide at the section of the road. As has proven common over this last week or so the first orchids found are the greenhoods. However, this time they appear to be another species due to the brown colouring. I feel they are all the Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula) which is listed as having either brown and white or green and white flowers, is of short stature and has no more that 5 flowers per plant. The location is within their listed range, and they flower during June and July.

Orchids from the Pterostylis genus are the only other orchids found at this location. First up is an almost open Jug orchid (P. recurva) followed by an almost open Frog greenhood (P. sargentii). Then a sole Robust snail orchid (Pterostylis dilatata) is found flowering. These orchids are widespread from Northampton to Toolinna. The lack of a rosette on flowering plants is a distinctive feature.

Nothing more, other than Red Beak leaves and some Caladenia leaves, so we move further along the road before making another roadside stop.

The next stop is also just another patch of pterostylis orchids. The greenhoods this time appear to be the Dark banded greenhood (Pterostylis sanguinea) which are consistently brown and white in colour, have more flowers per plant and are taller in stature than P. arbuscula. However, on closer inspection of my photos I think some of them may be P. arbuscula as they have green/brown and white flowers and 10 or less cauline leaves. What are your thoughts?

More Frog greenhoods (Pterostylis sargentii) are also found however excitedly some of these ones a fully formed. These are the earlier flowering of the 2 species, and I was able to get some good pics of the fleshy, glabrous horn-like structures on the labellum, which are distinctive features.

Only thing else found was a nice patch of Sun orchid (Thelymitra sp.) leaves and a single red backed Pink fairy leaf?
So onward we go to Lake King where we make a toilet stop, before heading out to Frank Hahn National Park. Here we visit Lillian Rock where we eat lunch before exploring the rock area. Only sign of orchids here were also a patch of leaves, identification of which I will not attempt.
Disappointedly we leave here and move south down Cascade Road then right onto West Point Road and left onto Melaleuca Road. Past River Road intersection we make a roadside stop and still no orchids. A 2nd roadside stop at different looking habitat still turns up nothing, so we make a beeline for a known orchid location.

We arrive at one of our favourite and reliable locations on Mills Road. Here we immediately spy the bright yellow donkey orchids. They are found over the entire area we walk around which is quite amazing. Identifying them is difficult as 2 very similar species are listed as occurring in the Ravensthorpe shire and this location is only 20km from the coast. The possible species are the Green Range donkey orchid (Diuris littoralis) and the South coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii). Heights range from 180/150mm to 300mm and flowering season – Jul/Jun to Sep/Aug respectively, which adds to ID confusion. Seems size of the flower may assist with ID so I may need to take photos with tape measure in view to assist with this next time.

Only other orchids found here were further greenhoods and snails. The greenhoods are darker in colour so again may be either P. sanguinea or P. arbuscula. Please assist in the ID if you can.
The snails though appear to be the Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa) a common inland species, which is extremely variable in appearance.

From here we head into Munglinup townsite where I check out a vacant block while Deb fills up the Triton with diesel. More donkey orchids are found, plus some Caladenia sp. leaves with one in bud. However, the exciting find was a small orchid I nearly stepped on whilst walking over to Deb, who had driven down to pick me up.
A lone tiny Pink bunny orchid (Eriochilus scaber subsp. scaber) was found. This was surprising as this spot had not been recently burnt and over previous visits they had not been found.
These small orchids only grow to a maximum height of 150mm; however, this specimen would have been only 30mm. Nearby a patch of 5 in flower was found with one in particular being a much stronger pink in colour. It would have been great to explore a bit more, but it is nearly 4pm so onwards we go.

From Munglinup we travel east to Coomalbidgup where we check out a burnt-out area. We are knocked over by the patches of Pink bunny orchids found. However other than these the only other flowering orchid found was a poor but recognisable Hare orchid (Leporella fimbriata), as well as Red beaks in bud and Caladenia sp. leaves.

Well, we have finally reached the end of our time away and make tracks back to Esperance. Unfortunately, we did not find the elusive Queen of Sheba orchid in flower but may have found it in bud, which is exciting. It will take another trip in another season to locate a flowering specimen. The masses of Pink bunny orchids though were a definite orchid highlight of the trip. Whilst the Lights in Kings Park, revisiting The Gap in Albany and just spending a relaxing time away with my beautiful wife were the non-orchid highlights.

22/07/2023 ….. A week spent wandering – Part 2

Boyagin NR, Midgegooroo NP, National Parks, Nature Reserves, Numerous days, Road Trip, Western Australian Orchids

We awake to a beautiful sunny winters day and enjoy the complimentary breakfast at the Exchange Tavern. Before heading off we go for a walk around the town centre of Pingelly and grab a few pics of the wonderful buildings and parks.

It’s past 10am, so we leave Pingelly and head northwest to our first orchid hunt of the day; Boyagin Nature Reserve. Pulling over on the edge of the road we venture into the bush. First orchid found is the unique and I think special Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata) which flowers from late April to early September, over a large range, Perth to Israelite Bay. I never tire of finding these orchids, especially the larger ones with many flowers. They can be inconspicuous due to the green and white colouring, however in this location they stood out against the brown leaf litter.

Nothing else found in the bush so we venture up to the Boyagin Rock parking area, so we could explore the granite outcrop, as an alternative habitat to the bush. Not a great success with the only orchids found being a few snail orchids at the base of the rock in the soggy moss laden leaf litter. The Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa) is a common inland orchid which comes in many variations in size and hairiness. Only 2 decent pics taken. Maybe later in the season it may be a more productive location.

With a small sense of disappointment, we head off further west and make one final stop in the reserve by making another roadside search. Another Pterostylis orchid is found, this time the small Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii) is found growing near the gravel rock outcrop. These orchids are found flowering from July to early September over an inland range between Murchison River and Mt Ragged.

Further Banded greenhoods are found; however, some have brown colouring to them so they may be the Mallee banded greenhood (Pterostylis arbuscula) which is a smaller orchid with variably coloured flowers. Unlike P. vittata which is noted as having translucent flowers, P. arbuscula is noted as having semi-translucent flowers. The flowers with brown colourings do seem less translucent so I am confident they are P. arbuscula. Any comments in agreement or not are welcome.

Getting peckish, so we move on and pull into our Williams Road location, where we enjoy lunch on the tailgate of the Triton. Satisfied, we go exploring and finally in a location with many orchids, however still only of the Pterostylis genus. More Mallee banded greenhoods, Banded greenhoods, Hairy-stemmed snail orchids and Frog greenhoods are found. Unsure of the ID of some greenhood orchids but will post more pics as a record of all of these orchids.

Now for the exciting part. We find a good number of the Red-veined shell orchid (Pterostylis hamiltonii) which flowers from late May to early August over a range between Toodyay and the Stirling Range. There are also some greener coloured shell orchids which may be P. scabra but I will not confirm that ID as yet.

For the first time ever at this location, we met a fellow orchid hunter. I was able to show him the Frog greenhood, which was a first for him. We said our goodbyes and headed off towards Perth but pull over at the Midgegooroo National Park for one last quick hunt. Not too much found, just a solitary greenhood orchid. Actual ID unknown so will post pic for record purposes. ID with assistance required!!!

OK so now it’s time to reach the city and get ready for the Kings Park Lightscape experience. Went with my in-laws and completed the 2km walk trail set throughout the park. It was an amazing experience, though pushing a wheelchair the whole way was tiring, but well worth the effort, so that dad could enjoy the lights.

08/10/2022 ….. Ongerup walkabout

Numerous days, Road Trip, Western Australian Orchids

After not too cold a night we awake to a beautiful day in the Ongerup Gardens Caravan Park. After cereal for breakfast, we decide to go exploring the woodlands behind the caravan park. We take what we believe to be a rough track, but it peters out soon enough, so we go bush bashing in an attempt to find it again. We end up curving north and head up past the sporting complex. We cross Jaekel Steet and follow the track/s to the Yongergnow Malleefowl Centre, where we grab a coffee, for the walk back to the caravan park. The orchid count for such a good walk was a bit disappointing, however we did find some, so I will record them now.

Lazy spider orchid (Caladenia multiclavia)

Location: Borden to Ravensthorpe with rare populations northwards to Wongan Hills.

Habitat: Grows in woodland habitats, especially sheaok Allocasuarina species, on damp sheltered sites, often around rocky outcrops.

Season: September & October

Green spider (Fringed mantis) orchid (Caladenia falcata)

Location: Wongan Hills to Jerramungup

Habitat: Grows in a variety of woodland and shrubland habitats, on sandy to clay loam soils.

Season: September and October.

Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)

Location: Northampton to Israelite Bay

Habitat: Flowers in greater profusion after summer fire. Sand, laterite, granite. Coastal woodlands, winter-wet swamps, forest areas, granite outcrops.

Season: July to December

Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)

Location: Kalbarri to Israelite Bay

Habitat: Grows in a wide variety of habitats, including heaths, woodland, open forest and mallee scrubs.

Season: August to early November

Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera)

Location: Shark Bay to Israelite Bay

Habitat: Sand, clay, sandy loam. Seasonally moist flats, creeklines, granite outcrops.

Season: July to October

Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii)

Location: Northampton and Grasspatch

Habitat: Sandy clay & loam, white clayey sand, gravel, laterite, quartz, granite, limestone. Flats, gentle slopes, breakaways, rock cavities.

Season: July to November

Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile)

Location: Shark Bay to Eyre

Habitat: Sand, peaty sandy clay. Coastal swamps and sandhills, granite outcrops, winter-wet areas.

Season: July to October

Shy sun orchid (Thelymitra graminea)

Location: Perth to Esperance

Habitat: Growing in sandy or lateritic soils in woodlands and forests.

Season: October and November

Eight species ultimately found, however the numbers found were very low. Time to head toward Jerramungup, where we plan to check out a bush fire location, we spotted on the drive over on Monday.

21/08/2022 ….. Varley to Esperance – Our 2022 Road Trip Ends

Kathleen NR, Nature Reserves, Numerous days, Pallarup NR, Road Trip, Western Australian Orchids

A leisurely morning today as it is our last one for our 2022 road trip. We enjoyed breakfast whilst listening the raucous Galah flock as they ate on the ground then flew up when spooked into the nearby trees. Our first orchid location was not far away so we were in no rush.

Dempster Rock is our first hunt for the day. As per many locations, the first orchid found is the Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setuloso), which is a common inland orchid. Only a couple found here and no more were encountered at this location, which is interesting.

We find loads of spider orchids which will as usual prove problematic to identify so firstly I will post the pics of other orchids found first. So the first non-spider orchid found was the common inland occurring Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) which is found in huge numbers later in the search. I will post some individual pics plus a video showing the large expanse of flowers.

Next up we find some Blue beards (Pheladenia deformis) growing sparsely around the location with one small clump in the early stages of flowering found. It is always nice to find a blue orchid as they are a rare colour for our Southwest orchids.

Another vibrant colour found is pink. The lone Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) stood out in the green grasses. No others found though, so we thank our lucky stars we came across this specimen.

OK, so now it’s time to record the spider orchid finds. I will start with the easier ones first. The Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis) is a unique spider orchid with usually drooping petals and all sepals, plus has a smooth or slightly fringed labellum.

That’s it for easy ID, now it becomes more difficult. These striking red spider orchids are not recorded as occurring this far southeast. The two that have the closest listed range are the Slender spider orchid and the Red thread spider orchid. Both occur in pure red forms, and both are listed as having pendulous or near pendulous petals and lateral sepals. EDIT: With assistance from members of the FB group Western Australian Native Orchids I am now confident in naming this small clump as being the Slender spider orchid (Caladenia pulchra)

So now the identification gets even more difficult. First up I think these orchids are the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia) due to the backswept petals and whitish colouring to the flowers, however they are variable in colour, so maybe not a great defining feature. 🙂

I have already posted these on iNaturalist and have been advised they may be the Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma) due to the larger flowers than the similar Chameleon spider orchid. Thoughts accepted.

Now many spider orchids with a creamy to yellow colouring confuse me even more. Some have dark filaments to the ends of the petals and sepals, whilst there are also differences in the colours of the labellum calli. They could be more of the species already identified today or possibly another species. Again, any help in ID would be appreciated.

Joseph’s spider orchids dancing in the breeze.

Getting late so we had better move on. We did not get far before pulling into Sugg Rock Road to visit Kathleen Nature Reserve. We just park up on the road verge and head into the reserve to hopefully find some orchids. We do find some but not in great numbers. The first orchid found was another spider orchid, which I believe is another Joseph’s spider orchid. This was followed up by two headed one tangled together. Then yellowish coloured ones are found.

Then we find an orchid that was once included in the Caladenia genus but in Western Australia it has been added to its own monotypic genus, Ericksonella. The Sugar orchid is a distinctive white orchid with horizontally held lateral sepals.

The next three orchids found belong to the genus Pterostylis. First up the ever-reliable Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) is found. Then we find a good patch of Midget greenhoods (Pterostylis mutica) growing in numerous spots. Finally, the equally small Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta) which was only named as a distinct species in 2021.

We are getting a pit peckish and plan on a counter lunch at Lake King Tavern, so we push on. However, on reaching the main road we notice a sign pointing west indicating Sugg Rock dam, so we cross the road to check it out. We did not find the dam but decided to check out the bush as it was a bit more open than in the Nature Reserve. We find some familiar orchids so take a photo to record the location and keep searching.

More spider orchids are found which appear to be more Joseph’s spider orchids.

Final couple of orchids found were more Pterostylis ones. A lone greenhood that was fertilised a while ago and a lone good quality shell orchid. The shell orchid is possibly a Green-veined shell orchid (Pterostylis scabra) which flowers May through August over a range from Kalbarri to Esperance.

Now finally it’s time to go and grab some lunch. We enjoy a cold bevvy and hot counter meal at the Lake King Tavern, before heading south to our last planned stop of the 2022 road trip, Pallarup Nature Reserve. Our particular spot is Pallarup Rock picnic area, where we park up and head off on foot to find some orchids. First up the colourful Pink candy orchids are found. Quickly followed up by the Sugar orchids and Blue beards.

Then we moved along the track toward the rock, where we came across some spider orchids. First up were the small Joseph’s spider orchids, however we also found the larger Pallarup white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. ‘Pallarup’) which grows over a restricted range between Lake King and Ravensthorpe, growing in sandy soil on the margins of granite outcrops.

Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)

We venture onto the rock but not much catches our eyes, so we loop back into the surrounding bush and we find more orchids, this time from the Diuris genus. The South-coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii) is found between Ongerup and Esperance during the months of June to August. I feel confident on this ID based on the location and the bright yellow colouring of the flowers, as the other possibility is a pale yellow in colour (D. brachyscapa).

More various orchids found including more Sugar, Bluebeard and Pink Candy orchids, plus a nice Jug Orchid and a very special Lutea or hypochromic candy orchid. As usual Pallarup Rock area always has something flowering during the season. It was a fitting place to end our 2022 Road Trip.

I trust you have enjoyed travelling with us on our 2022 Road Trip which had some exciting, scary, amazing and awe-inspiring times. There was a patch of no orchid hunting but there are areas of this great state of Western Australia that still need to be seen. 2023 will be similar as we venture across the desert to Coober Pedy in South Australia. Well, that is the plan for now.

20/08/2022 ….. Roe Dam to Varley

Lake Hurlstone NR, Nature Reserves, Numerous days, Other Reserves, Road Trip, Twine Reserve, Western Australian Orchids

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)

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.

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.

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.

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 trail

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 and the other orchid may be the Ironcaps spider orchid (Caladenia paradoxa) which is described as having wispy, often pendulous petals and lateral sepals with a white, red striped labellum.

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.

12/09/2021 ….. Jerramungup to Munglinup

East Naernup NR, Koornong NR, Nature Reserves, Numerous days, Road Trip, Western Australian Orchids

After an early breakfast we head out to our first location to continue our orchid hunt. Some of the first orchids found are still covered in dew, which exposes the cobwebs as well.

JERRAMUNGUP CEMETERY

Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)

Well, I glad we persevered at this location given we found nothing in the first 5 minutes. The hybrid found was our first with a Dragon orchid and the numbers of white spiders was amazing.

However, we must keep moving but we only make it some way up the SouthCoast Highway before pulling into Jacup Highway Park, a rest stop near to the Fitzgerald River crossing. Seems a bit overrun with weeds, but we make the effort and are rewarded big time.

JACUP HIGHWAY PARK

Wheatbelt spider orchid (Caladenia x cala)

After some amazing finds, we jump back into the Triton and head east. We decide to check out another new location and pull over at Koornong Nature Reserve. Some of our finds may be outside the Nature Reserve boundary as the scrubland extends further along the roadside than we were originally aware of.

Koornong Nature Reserve

Four species found, so not too bad a spot. Worthy of a re-visit another time. Next stop is further along the highway. Here we pull into an old bitumen dump and venture into the surrounding scrub. Orchids found 🙂

East Naernup Nature Reserve

Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa)

It is now way past lunch time, so we head to Munglinup Roadhouse for their amazing burger. Near the roadhouse I find a nice spider orchid and take a photo, which ends up being the last taken for the day.

Our 2021 orchid hunting road trip has come to an end as we head home from Munglinup. As usual it has been amazing to find so many beautiful orchids in the wonderful West Australian bush and woodlands. Many old favourites found as well as some new species, which is always very exciting. Quite a few hybrids found this time as well as a few lutea or polychromic variants.

11/09/2021 ….. Chirelillup Nature Reserve to Jerramungup

Chirelillup NR, Nature Reserves, Numerous days, Road Trip, Toompup NR, Warperup East NR, Western Australian Orchids

After a cool night, instead of packing up camp straight after breakfast, we go exploring the reserve, whilst the camper dries out. I had seen lots of orchids on my quick scout yesterday and now looked forward to having the time to explore with Debbie.

CHIRELILLUP NATURE RESERVE

As per last night the very first orchid found is the Green spider orchid (Caladenia falcata). Also commonly known as the Fringed Mantis orchid.

Then we stumble across a newly named orchid. The Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta) was named in 2021 from specimens collected in 2005, west of Brookton. It is distinguished from P. sargentii by the shape and hairiness of the horn-like structures of the labellum.

Then an old favourite appears just asking us to take a photo. The Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) comes in varied shades of yellow. Then the reddish markings can be bold or pale and be dots or lines and everything in between.

Another yellow orchid is then spotted. Donkey orchids are another orchid that can be difficult to identify, as they are all so similar in appearance and overlap in their recorded locations. For this reason I will not attempt to name the ones found here.

Well I find donkey orchids hard to identify, now I need to try and identify spider orchids from the filamentosa complex. I believe some to be the Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians) whilst others may be the Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma) as both are recorded as being located in the Shire of Gnowangerup, and the features seem to match the reference books

An exciting find was the Purple-veined spider orchid (Caladenia doutchiae) which is found between Mullewa and Raventhorpe. The long tapers to the sepals distinguish it from other related orchids.

A common inland orchid is the Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) however only a few were found at this location. Also found was the ever reliable Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva), again not in great numbers though.

We ran into some fellow orchid enthusiasts, Martina & Rick, who amazingly follow this blog via Facebook. They shared with us an app on their phone they use to record locations of interest. It also has the ability to overlay geology maps, that show different geology types, which they feel assists them in locating different orchid habitats. I have installed the Australian geology travel maps app and now regularly use it on our excursions.

The camper has now dried out sufficiently so we pack up camp and head off. We detour into Gnowangerup before heading east again. This time we venture into a new location which is not too great a detour off the main track. However we did have to take the Triton and camper through a bit of water to get back to the main Gnowangerup-Jerramungup Road. The water was in the middle of farmland, not the Nature Reserve though.

TOOMPUP NATURE RESERVE

Being a new location, we are excited to see what is found in Toompup Nature Reserve. We pull into an off road parking spot and immediately find some Green spider orchid (Caladenia falcata) which is also referred to as Western mantis orchid. The highly upturned lateral sepals are one of its distinguishing features.

Some small frog greenhoods are located next, however the photos we took are not clear enough to discern the species conclusively. I though, will name them the Little frog greenhood (Pterostylis occulta) due to the sharp of the horn-like structures on the labellum. Please correct me if you think I have erred in this ID.

Some yellow catches our eye. The faithful Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) is found. They certainly brighten up the dull West Australian bush.

Vying for having the most yellow in the bush are the donkey orchids, which are also found en masse. To make life difficult three species are recorded as being found in the Shire of Gnowangerup. I will take a guess that some are the Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa) and some other ones are the Small flowered donkey orchid (Diuris porrifolia). Florabase mentions D. brachyscapa whilst Atlas of Living Australia lists D. brachyscapa and D. porrifolia as being found in this Nature Reserve.

Well we did find some orchids as a single specimen. A flowering Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) and Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea) , a budding Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis) and a spent Hare orchid (Leporella fimbriata) were some such finds. Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) and Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata) were found in low numbers.

Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)A
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)

OK so we find so many different coloured spider orchids from the filamentosa complex that being certain of their identification is proving difficult.

So, I believe most to be the Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma) as they are a common orchid that occurs in variable colours of white, cream, yellow, red and pink. However, the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia) is also a possibility given it occurs in various colours, though it is not currently recorded as occurring in the Gnowangerup LGA.

Some spiders I cannot name are shown opposite. Either the calli are not broad, the colouring seems different, or the size of the flower and labellum don’t fit in with the Joseph’s species. Any help with an ID would be appreciated.

Then to add to the confusion with identification, some hybrids are found together with a lutea or hypochromic specimen.

Parents could be the Purple-veined spider orchid and either Joseph’s or Chameleon spider orchids as both are recorded hybrids.

The lutea or hypochromic specimen appears to be a Joseph’s spider orchid due to the broad calli on the labellum.

Also found were some larger white spider orchids. Now 2 sub-species of C. longicauda are recorded as being found nearby to this location. However, I believe the one I located to be the Stark white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens) due to the broad labellum with long fringe segments.

As with the smaller spider orchids, we also came across a couple that did not appear usual. They could just be variants, given the C. longicauda has 4 or more rows of calli. However, the colouring is not stark white either so if you can help with ID, again that would be appreciated.

Finally, time to move on towards Ongerup where we plan to grab a cuppa at the Malleefowl Centre. We came across some water covering the road, so I jumped out and walked through to test the depth. All good, so Deb pushes through and we arrive at the Yongergnow Malleefowl Centre.

Water covers Cleveland Road, so I jumped out and walked through to test the depth. All good, so Deb pushes through in the mighty Triton.

After another amazing cuppa and icecream we make tracks east towards Jerramungup. However along the Gnowangerup-Jerramungup Road we pull over at a patch of green on the map. It turns out to be Warperup East Nature Reserve. So we jump out the Triton and go exploring this new location.

WARPERUP EAST NATURE RESERVE

First up we find the Sugar orchid (Ericksonella saccharata), which has now been found at all 3 locations visited so far today.

Next up find some orchids of the Pterostylis genus. Most are way past their best, but I took photos just to record they are found at this location. Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva), Banded greenhood (Pterostylis vittata) and Hairy-stemmed snail orchid (Pterostylis setulosa). These orchids all start flowering much earlier in the season.

Other green orchids are found but these belong to the Caladenia genus. First up we find the Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima), however later on larger flowers are found with longer fringe segments. These could be the Green spider orchid (Caladenia falcata) which occurs as far east as Jerramungup according to my references. The Small mantis orchid is stated as being located as far west as Jerramungup and as we are only 22kms west of Jerramungup both of these species could very well be located here.

Excitedly, we find a new species for the day. The Western tiny blue orchid (Cyanicula aperta) as the name suggests is only 50 – 150mm in height with flowers only 20 – 25mm across. For comparison the Stark white spider orchid is 300 – 600mm in height with flowers 80 -120mm across.

After blue comes the yellow. The reliable Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) is the next orchid to be spotted.

Another yellow orchid is also found. The Western wheatbelt donkey orchid (Diuris brachyscapa) is a common orchid found between York, Tenterden and Ravensthorpe. The lateral sepals are said to be crossed hanging, often reflexed, which my pictures confirm.

A special find for this location was the hybrid orchids found. Three in total were found and I believe they are all the named hybrid, Wheatbelt spider orchid (Caladenia x cala). This is a cross between a White spider orchid (C. longicauda) and a Green spider orchid (C. falcata). Hybrids of C. attingens X C. longicauda are also recorded though un-named.

We then move a little further east before pulling up at the location of Needilup. A quick exploration around then takes place with some familiar orchids being found.

NEEDILUP

Well, we only pull over on the side of the road and explore a few meters in. First orchid to catch our eyes was the donkey orchid. Then a lone 2 headed Jug orchid is found, plus lots of Green spider orchids. I feel these ones are definitely Green spiders and not Small mantises due to the size of the labellum.

No more stops before we reach our final destination for the day. Jerramungup is a welcome sight after a long day orchid hunting. We check into the Jerramungup Motor Hotel and enjoy a good pub feed and a comfortable bed. At least 17 different species found with a few hybrids thrown in. A very pleasing day !!!!

10/9/2021 ….. Stirling Range National Park to Chirelillup Nature Reserve

Camel Lake NR, Chirelillup NR, National Parks, Nature Reserves, Numerous days, Road Trip, Stirling Range NP, Western Australian Orchids

Well after enjoying our 2nd night at the Stirling Range Retreat, we pack up and head out on our exploration of the Stirling Range National Park. We plan on taking the Stirling Range Drive to Red Gum Pass Road, then north to Salt River Road. Then heading east to Formby Road South where we will head north to Gnowangerup. Obviously we plan on making numerous stops to explore for orchids and to enjoy the wonderful outdoors.

First up we head into Bluff Knoll Road to check out the orchids in one further location. Maybe we will find something different without the threat of rain hanging over our heads. Not surprisingly, the orchids found were the same as the ones found yesterday, but photos were taken again of course.

Warty or Slender hammer orchid ?? (Drakaea sp.)

Nearly 10am, so we make tracks toward our next location. On Stirling Range Drive, we make a split second decision to pull over on the side of the road. We manage to find a few orchids on the side of the road.

We jump back in the Triton and move a few hundred metres down the road before stopping at a spot that had seen a bushfire some time in the last year. Let us see if this has triggered orchids to grow for us to find.

Now it nearly 11am so onwards we travel, with our next stop being Talyuberlup Picnic Area. First up we check the picnic area side of the road then we head up the Talyuberlup Peak trail a wee bit, before scrambling back to the triton. As we had hoped, orchids are found.

Time to consider lunch, so we move onwards to White Gum Flat picnic area. We have a bite to eat and then go exploring the nearby area. We don’t venture to far before we find orchids. This time round we actually cross the road and find further orchids including new ones for the day. Turns out the King spider orchid is a new species for us, so that was an exciting find.

King spider orchid (Caladenia pectinata)

Still more of this National Park to check out so onwards we go. At the intersection of Red Gum Pass Road we turn left and check out some locations along the roadside. We found a few orchids including some new ones for the day.

Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians)

We now head north along Red Gum Pass Road and make a quick stop into the picnic area, where we find a few orchids but move further north to another road side location where orchids are located as well.

We eventually reach Salt River Road and turn right. However we soon pull over at Salt Lake Nature Reserve for an explore, but after a quick check not much is located so we move on to Camel Lake Nature Reserve, with a road side stop along the way. At this final stop we are lucky to find some new orchid species for the day as well as previously found ones. Photos of all those found at the locations along the way were taken to record their discovery near the northern boundary of the National Park.

Wowsers, they were amazing first time locations for orchids. 13 possible species and 1 hybrid found, however we must move on as it’s past 4.30pm and we still have nearly 50kms to our planned destination. We arrive at Chirelillup Nature Reserve, set up camp and whilst Deb lights the campfire I have a very quick scout around in the waning sunlight.

Cowslip orchids, Green spider orchid and Daisies

13/08/2021 ….. Esperance to the Jam Patch, Nth Lake Grace

Esperance, Nature Reserves, South Buniche NR, Western Australian Orchids, Wind Farm

Day one of our annual road trip. This time however we are travelling with a larger group and are heading up into the Pilbara, where orchids are not located, so I will be recording only the days which include finding orchids. We leave home at 7.45am and head up to West Beach to say goodbye to our grandkids, then as we are over that way we call into the Wind Farm for a quick gander.

Here we find the Mosquito orchid (Cyrtostylis robusta), Curled-tongue shell orchid (Pterostylis rogersii) and Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia). Deb grabs some quick snaps before we head off west towards Munglinup.

Deb drops me off at the cleared block near the Munglinup Roadhouse, whilst she goes to the toilet. Walking back to meet her I find some donkey orchids in flower. From my knowledge or the area they are either Green Range donkey orchids (Diuris littoralis) or South coast donkey orchids (Diuris brockmanii) which have very similar features and distribution.

From here we head to Ravensthorpe then north to Lake King, where we have a tavern lunch. With full bellies we head west toward Lake Grace. However along the way we look into the verge at South Buniche Nature Reserve. Here we locate 3 different species in the Pterostylis genre. First up is the common Jug orchid (Pterostylis recurva) followed by some snail orchids. These little guys could possibly be two different species due to their colouring and rosettes. The final orchid is the unique Frog greenhood (Pterostylis sargentii).

We now move onto our planned overnight stay, the Jam Patch, in North Lake Grace. We expected other campers to be here, however we lucked into being all alone. Before setting up camp fully we venture off on the Red loop walk trail in search of orchids. Hairy-stemmed snail orchids (Pterostylis setulosa) are the first orchid to be found.

At the edge of a flat granite rock I was lucky enough to stumble across some spider orchids. From the location alongside a granite rock I will take a stab and name these the Chameleon spider orchid (Caladenia dimidia) which occurs between Paynes Find and Norseman during July to September.

It was great to find some spider orchids as it was looking like a Pterostylis type of day. We kept walking the trail and came to the lake which provided great reflection shots and is where the featured image was taken. The only other orchids found though were a great bunch of more Hairy-stemmed snail orchids. So I have posted a photo just to show the number of orchids in such a small location. Also posted a pic of our camp for the night. Was a nice day to start our road trip. Not as many orchid stops as usual, but this trip we are travelling much larger distances.

WA Orchid Adventures

Come with me on my Orchid Adventures in Southern Western Austalia

Frog