Lemon-scented Orchid
Thelymitra antennifera
Synonyms
- Macdonaldia antennifera
Notes
The Lemon-scented Orchid, also known as the Vanilla Orchid, is one of the most common and widespread Sun Orchids of Australia. It is predominantly found in winter-wet areas, in particular around granite outcrops, throughout the southern parts of the country, including south-western WA, southern SA, and VIC. It is listed as endangered in TAS where is is restricted to a few coastal areas in the north and east of the island.
The Lemon-scented Orchid is easily recognised by its characteristic yellow colour and prominent brown column wings. The orchids usually stand between 10 and 20 cm tall and can often be seen growing in large groups in shallow soil pockets on granite rocks. The flowers will only open on warm and sunny days and otherwise remain closed, revealing the characteristic red and yellow underside. The peak flowering season lasts from late winter until mid spring.
Photos
References
- Thelymitra antennifera in the Australian Plant Name Index
- Thelymitra antennifera in the Atlas of Living Australia
- Thelymitra antennifera in the Flora of Victoria
- Thelymitra antennifera in the Electronic Flora of South Australia
- Thelymitra antennifera in the Western Australian FloraBase
- Thelymitra antennifera in the Tasmanian Threatened Species Link