Corduroy orchid, Shepherd’s crook orchid

This deciduous terrestrial is also known under the names Geodorum densiflorum, Geodorum pictum, Eulophia picta. This orchid is the only Eulophia found in Australia. It grows in open eucalyptus forests throughout Brisbane.

The pleated leaves grow to about 30 cm by 8 cm with a flower stem to about 30 cm. The stem grows erect and then nods when in flower and then straightens for seed dispersal. The stem holds up to 20 pale pink tubular flowers. The flowers do not open, but remain as a tube.

This orchid is unmistakable when in flower and cannot be confused with any other orchid.