In another search for the elusive rare Eastern Spider Orchid at Wilson’s Prom’ I have failed again, but in the second week of October, it is the “Donkey Orchids” that are in flower in the vicinity of the Miller’s landing car park.
Donkey Orchid (diuris orchidaceae)
“…commonly known as donkey orchids, bee orchids, nanny goat orchids or pansy orchids, is a genus of more than sixty species of flowering plants in the orchid family, Orchidaceae and is endemic to Australia, apart from one species endemic to Timor. The name “Diuris” refers to the hanging sepals but the common name “donkey orchid”, derives from the ear-like petals common to all species. Many have mainly yellow flowers with darker markings and are thought to mimic nectar-producing flowers which open at the same time.”
