Thynninorchis huntiana
Elbow Orchid
Erect saprophytic perennial herb, shooting from tubers. 2-4 sheathing bracts at base of stem.
Additional information
- SynonymArthrochilus huntianus
- FamilyOrchidaceae
- StoreyLower storey
- Size8-20 cm high
- Plant groupingOrchids
- LeavesAbsent
- Flower colourReddish-green
- Flowering timeNovember to March
- FlowersSpike of 2-6 stalked flowers to 6 mm; petals and sepals similar, bent backwards; central petal (labellum) joined to column with elbow-like joint, tongue fringed with long purplish-red hairs, 2 rough hairy tails at lower end.
- Bird attractingNo
- Butterfly attractingNo
- Frog habitatNo
- Growing conditionsWell drained soil, on dry ridges of open forests. Semi shade.
- Garden useNever remove orchids from the bush. Saprophytes do not produce chlorophyll and live off decaying material. Cannot be cultivated.
- Commercially availableRarely
- Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites where it is uncommon.
Photo Gallery
Photographer/s: 1 T Leitch, iNaturalist Australia ©; 2 Mischa Rowan ©; 3 David Francis, NatureShare ©
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