21 July 2008

Leafless Orchid - Praecoxanthus aphyllus

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Leafless Orchid - Praecoxanthus aphyllus


As the name suggests, this orchid does not have the usual basal leaf/leaves, although it does have a small bract at ground level, but this is not noticeable unless searched for. All that is observable is the bright creamy and fragrant flower, which pokes through the sedges in low-lying areas (usually with subsurface moisture).


It is one of the first orchids to flower and can be seen from March to May. It is easily seen due to the bright flower, but although widespread in its habitat the plants are typically widely spaced, so you need to keep a lookout for them.