A small terrestrial orchid, growing to about 25cm high. Petals and sepals are green with a maroon stripe. Labellum covered with maroon hairs. The labellum of the Dragon Orchid seems to resemble a female Thynnid Wasp and it also excretes the scent of this wasp. The male wasp becomes stuck on the hairs of the labellum and can only escape by moving towards the column and in doing so becomes a pollinator. Favours damp areas.
Previously named Drakonorchis barbarossa
Flowering start in September and ends in November.
Identification
The main flower colour is red. Small size, striped floral parts and hairy labellum.
References
http://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/1577http://www.waratahsoftware.com.au/wp_flora_orchids_wa.htmlCreated: 24 Apr 2014 - Member - John and Val
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