Cradle orchid, spurred helmet orchid

This deciduous terrestrial orchid grows in rainforest verges or damp areas of open eucalypt forests. It is often locally common and generally occurs in groups.

The leaf grows to about 25 mm diameter, just above the leaf litter. The flower is up to 25 mm across and is held on a short stem. The flower is pink to purplish and very distinctive, giving it the common name of helmet orchid.

There is only one other similar orchid occurring around Brisbane, Corybas barbarae, but can be separated as the flower of Corybas barbarae is sparkling white with pinkish tinges.