Pterostylis nana
Dwarf Greenhood
Perennial herb rising from round tubers to form large 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
- SynonymLinguella nana
- FamilyOrchidaceae
- StoreyLower storey
- Size5-15 cm high
- Plant groupingOrchids
- LeavesRosette of 3-10 stalked dull green egg-shaped leaves 5-20 mm x 3-10 mm, around the base of the stem, margins wavy. 1-2 small stem-clasping leaves.
- Flower colourBright green and white with darker stripes
- Flowering timeJuly to October
- FlowersSingle flower to 20 mm. Hood mostly upright, top curved forward through gap, petals flared, tips blunt. Lateral sepals erect, gap broad, ridged, points upright for 5-25 mm, clubbed. Lip not visible.
- Bird attractingNo
- Butterfly attractingNo
- Frog habitatNo
- Growing conditionsMoist well drained soil in heathy woodland and forests. Size will vary with moisture levels. Full sun to full 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 statusRestricted distribution within the Shire but locally common.
- Aboriginal Use Food - tuber
Photo Gallery
Photographer/s: 1, 2 Colin Rowan, RetiredAussies ©; 3 Neil Blair, Royal Botanic Gardens Board ©
Plant Communities