Narrow-lipped Hammer Orchid
Drakaea thynniphila
Notes
Like all Hammer Orchids, the Narrow-lipped Hammer Orchid is endemic to south-western Australia, where it occurs in the higher-rainfall areas between Albany and the Leeuwin–Naturaliste Ridge. It is commonly encountered in sandy clearings and along sandy tracks in forests and woodlands, often in the company of other Hammer Orchids such as the King-in-his-carriage (Drakaea glyptodon) and the Warty Hammer Orchid (Drakaea livida). The main flowering period is from September until October.
While superficially similar to other Hammer Orchids, in particular the Slender Hammer Orchid (Drakaea gracilis), the Narrow-lipped Hammer Orchid is readily distinguished by its narrow labellum, the tip of which is only slightly upturned. In addition, the labellum is not quite as densely covered in hairs as in other species. The smooth, ground-hugging leaf is light green in colour and distinctly heart-shaped.
Photos
References
- Drakaea thynniphila in the Australian Plant Name Index
- Drakaea thynniphila in the Atlas of Living Australia
- Drakaea thynniphila in the Western Australian FloraBase