Large tongue orchid
Cryptostylis subulata
Family: Orchidaceae
What it is like
An robust orchid. It has thick fleshy roots. The leaves are held erect and are leathery. They are up to 15 cm long by 3 cm wide. They are yellowish-green. The flower stalk is 80 cm long and has 3-20 flowers. Each flower is about 2.5 cm long. The flowers are green with brownish or reddish tinges. The tongue (labellum) is folded and reddish-purple.
There are about 20 Cryptostylis species from Malaysia to Australia and the Pacific. It is a protected species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It usually grows in swamps and near the edges of streams. It grow in moist positions in open forests. It needs a protected shaded position. It is damaged by frost and drought.
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
Plants can be grown from corms. A mixture of coarse sand and leaf litter from the original location is best. Plants do not respond well to root disturbance. Plants are pollinated by native wasps.
Its other names
Local names
Cow’s Horns, Duckbill Orchid, Tongue Orchid