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Pterostylis clivosa

Red-tipped or Corranwarrabul Greenhood

Perennial herb rising from round tubers to form loose colonies. Central sepal and petals united into a galea (hood) over the column and labellum (lip). Lateral sepals joined at the base, ending in fine points.

Additional information

SynonymPterostylis sp. aff. parviflora (Eastern Melbourne), Separated from Pterostylis parviflora; Speculantha sp. aff. parviflora
FamilyOrchidaceae
StoreyLower storey
Size8-20 cm high
Plant groupingOrchids
LeavesFlowering plants - 1-3 ground-hugging rosettes form on side shoots from the stem. 3-10 stalked egg-shaped grey-green leaves to 20 mm x 10 mm, with wavy margins. 2-4 closely sheathing stem leaves on wiry stem. Sterile plants have a small rosette.
Flower colourWhite and green striped with green tinges, brown petals and lateral sepals
Flowering timeMarch to May
Flowers2-8 flowers to 12 mm, facing into stem. Hood mostly erect, top curved forward, tip blunt. Lateral sepals brown with white stripes, erect, gap broad, protruding, points to 3 mm. Lip just visible.
Bird attractingNo
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsWell drained soils in moist forest and heathy woodlands which are moist in the growing season. 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 statusRare in Victoria with few known populations. Significant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites.
Aboriginal Use Food - tuber
Related speciesThe brown petals and tips are the major distinguishing features separating this species from P. parviflora. It tends to grow in loose colonies around the base of trees.