511B-1-Pterostylis-curta-hab-Neil-Blair-RBG.jpg

Pterostylis curta

Blunt Greenhood

Perennial herb rising from round tubers to form large colonies. Central sepal and petals united into a galea (hood) over the column and labellum (lip). Lateral sepals joined at the base, ending in fine points.

Additional information

  • FamilyOrchidaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size10-30 cm high
  • Plant groupingOrchids
  • LeavesGround-hugging rosette of 2-6 stalked dark green oblong leaves 1.5-10 cm x 8-30 mm, around the base of the stem, margins wavy or flat. 2-3 small stem-clasping leaves.
  • Flower colourTranslucent white with fine green stripes
  • Flowering timeJuly to October
  • FlowersSingle flower to 35 mm. Hood mostly upright, top shortly curved, tip tinged green-brown, pointed. Lateral sepals erect, loosely embracing hood, broad V-shaped gap, points to 10 mm, recurved. Lip brown, twisted.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsMoist to well drained soils in open forest and woodlands. Semi shade to full shade.
  • Garden useUse of orchids in gardens is not recommended, unless they already occur naturally, in which case they need to be protected. Removing orchids from the bush usually results in their death and further depletes remaining wild orchid populations. Available in
  • Commercially availableRarely
  • Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions. Remains in a few locations in the Shire.
  • Aboriginal Use Food - tuber
Photographer/s: 1, 4 Neil Blair, Royal Botanic Gardens Board ©; 2 Richard Hartlands ©; 3 Chris Clarke, NatureShare ©

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