Raspy root orchid

This epiphytic orchid grows in moist areas in the open forests and rain forest around Brisbane.

This distinctive orchid has up to 6 large leathery leaves to 15 cm long and an extensive root system of flattened roots covered with tiny warts giving the common name of Raspy root orchid. This orchid is a simultaneous flowerer with all the orchids in the area flowering a few days after an afternoon thunder storm.

There are up to 6 flowering stems to 30 cm long covered in crowded flowers 4 cm across. The flowers are yellow with red spotting and are short lived lasting only one to two days.

There is no other orchid which can be confused with this orchid when in flower.