If you look closely, you may spot beautiful terrestrial orchids flowering in the Park. Recently, a new species was recorded, increasing known species at the Park to 12.
The beautiful Austral Ladies Tresses Spiranthes australis was identified by sharp eyed Laurel Fowler from Toolijooa, contracted by Sydney Olympic Park to do vegetation works. Orchids generally come in three types: epiphytic, growing on host trees; lithophilic, growing on rocks; or terrestrial, growing in or on the ground. It is to this third group that our new orchid belongs.
Austral Ladies Tresses have up to 10 lance shaped leaves that grow from a small underground tuber. From November to March, a 300-400mm straight stem grows carrying a multitude of tiny bright pink flowers with a white frilly labellum. The plants scientific name is sourced from Greek: ‘Speira’, meaning spiral or twisted and ‘anthos’ meaning flowers, accurately describing the distinctive spiral of flowers. ‘Australis’ refers to the plant’s southern distribution.
The pollination of orchids is a diverse and fascinating story. Some orchids have become so specialised they only have one species that pollinates them. It is suspected, but not confirmed, that Austral Ladies Tresses are pollinated by small native bees although they could also be self-fertilising.
To keep this gorgeous new orchid flowering in the Park, we will need look after it. This includes ensuring they are not overgrown by more vigorous, weed species, or picked or trampled when park visitors leave the path. If you do find orchids, make sure you stop to admire them but remember to be careful.
