Dotted sun orchid, Spotted Sun Orchid
Thelymitra ixioides
Family: Orchidaceae
What it is like
A slender orchid. The leaf is narrow and sword shaped. It is 20-30 cm long by 10-15 mm wide. The leaf is fleshy. The edges can be rounded and thickened. The flowering stem can be 20-70 cm long. The flowers can be blue to deep purple. They can also be mauve or pink. The often have small dark spots.
There are about 70 Thelymitra species mostly in Australia and the Pacific.
Where it is found
It is a warm temperate to subtropical plant. It is most common in heathland and scrubby open forest. It needs a well-composted, well-drained soil. It needs a protected, shady position. It is resistant to frost but sensitive to drought. It suits hardiness zones 9-11.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Tasmania (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Tuber, root
How it is grown
It can be grown by division.