Fairy bells

This common lithophyte or occasional epiphyte usually grows on rocks in creeks and gullies around Brisbane. When it grows on trees, it occurs within 1m of the ground, generally much lower. Where conditions are suitable, this orchid occurs in large numbers forming large clumps.

This orchid has four to eight channelled leaves to 10 cm by 10 mm. Leaves are dark green to brown red usually with red spots. Flower stems are to 20 cm long with three to 15 flowers. Flowers are 6 mm across, light pink and usually quite cupped.

This orchid is easily identified by its lithophytic habit and its small pink flowers. The only other similar orchid is Sarcochilus hillii which grows ephipytically, has white flowers and lax leaves.