Common Waxlip, Blue Cockies, Parson-in-the-Pulpit, Wax-lip orchid
Glossodia major
Family: Orchidaceae
What it is like
A ground orchid with a thin wiry stem. It grows to about 30 cm tall. It has one hairy sword shaped leaf. This is 10 cm long by 2 cm wide. It is hairy on both surfaces and is often hugging the ground. The flower stalk is 30 cm long. There are 1-2 star shaped flowers. The flowers are purple and 4.5 cm across. They are white near the base and have two white patches.
There are about 3 Glossodia species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It is normally in coastal heath and light forest. They grow up to 800 m altitude.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Tasmania (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The tuber is roasted and eaten. This would kill the plant.
Edible parts
Tuber, root, bulb
How it is grown
Plants are grown from tubers. They can also be grown from seed. The seed are scattered around adult plants. Plants are very sensitive to overwatering. Plants flower more after fires.