Pterostylis truncata

Little Dumpies, Brittle 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

SynonymDiplodium truncatum
FamilyOrchidaceae
StoreyLower storey
Sizeto 15 cm high
Plant groupingOrchids
LeavesGround-hugging rosette of 2-8 stalked grey- green oblong leaves 10-30 mm x 5-15 mm, on non-flowering plants only. Short stout brownish-green stem with 2-6 closely sheathed tapering stem leaves on flowering plants.
Flower colourWhite with green and brownish-red stripes
Flowering timeApril to June
FlowersSingle flower to 50 mm. Hood semi-erect then curved forward, end blunt, sepal tip short and finely pointed, petals curved down. Lateral sepals erect, gap V-notched, points erect to 3 cm. Curved dark brown lip, blunt tip visible.
Bird attractingNo
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsWell drained gravelly soils in open forest. 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 statusEndangered within Victoria, at risk of extinction Known from one site within the Shire where it is at great risk of extinction.
Aboriginal Use Food - tuber