Leopard orchid, Common donkey-orchid, Spotted Double Tails
Diuris maculata

Family: Orchidaceae

What it is like

A ground orchid. The leaves are 30 cm long and 0.3-0.5 cm wide. There are 2-3 leaves per plant. The flowering stems are 15-35 cm long. The flowers are yellow and 2.5 cm across. They have dark brown blotches and spots. There are 2-3 flowers but up to 10 blooms on each flower stem. The petals are oval or round.

There are about 50 Diurus species. The Tasmanian plant may be Diuris pardina.

Where it is found

It is a warm temperate plant. It grows in heathlands and open forests in rocky places. It is best in light, sandy, well-drained soils in a protected shaded position. It is damaged by drought and frost. It suits hardiness zones 8-11.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin), Britain, Europe, Tasmania

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Tubers, root

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed. They can also be grown by division.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Possibly now Diuris pardina Lindl.;