Lyperanthus suaveolens

Brown Beaks

Erect perennial herb growing from small tubers. Stout brownish-green stem with 2 sheathing bracts and large floral bracts at base of flowers.

Additional information

• FamilyOrchidaceae
• StoreyLower storey
• Sizeto 45 cm high
• Plant groupingOrchids
• LeavesSingle stiffly-erect narrow-lance-shaped leathery leaves 23-33 cm x 12 mm, margins incurved, dark green on outer side with white inside.
• Flower colourDark brown to green
• Flowering timeAugust to November
• Flowers2-8 flowers to 30 cm across; central sepal incurved, broad, tapering; narrow incurved petals and lateral sepals, petals erect, sepals spreading. Curved yellow lip 3-lobed.
• Bird attractingNo
• Butterfly attractingNo
• Frog habitatNo
• Growing conditionsWell drained to moist soils in heathy woodlands in the foothills. Semi shade.
• Garden useUse of orchids in gardens is not recommended, unless they already occur naturally, in which case they need to be protected. Removing orchids from the bush usually results in their death and further depletes remaining wild orchid populations.
• Commercially availableNever
• Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites. May be locally abundant.
• Aboriginal Use Food - tuber

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