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Range of Paracaleana triens
Range of Paracaleana triens.

Broad-billed Duck Orchid
Paracaleana triens Hopper & A.P.Br. 2006

Synonyms

Notes

The Broad-billed Duck Orchid is found in scattered populations across southern parts of the Wheatbelt region of WA, where it grows in sandy areas in dense shrubland. It is distinguished from similar species of Duck Orchid by its far-inland range and relatively broad labellum, only about one third of which is covered in black calli. It also flowers quite early in the season — usually during September — when the leaves are still fresh and green. The Broad-billed Duck Orchid is generally very difficult to locate due to its small size and the dense shrubland in which it grows.

Photos

Paracaleana triens
Only about one third of the length of the labellum is covered with black calli. (Flynn, WA, 30 / 08 / 2015)
Paracaleana triens
Compared to other species of Duck Orchid the labellum is relatively broad. (Flynn, WA, 30 / 08 / 2015)
Paracaleana triens
Close-up view of the characteristic broad, black-tipped labellum. (Flynn, WA, 30 / 08 / 2015)
Paracaleana triens
Front view of a freshly emerged flower, the “wings” still spread out. (Flynn, WA, 30 / 08 / 2015)
Paracaleana triens
The broad, dark-green leaves are similar to those of other Duck Orchids and usually still fresh at the time of flowering. (Flynn, WA, 30 / 08 / 2015)
Paracaleana triens
The Broad-billed Duck Orchid grows in sandy soil in dense shrubland. (Flynn, WA, 30 / 08 / 2015)

References