Scented sun orchid, Plain Sun Orchid
Thelymitra nuda
Family: Orchidaceae
What it is like
A slender orchid. The leaf is narrow and sword shaped. It is 20-30 cm long by 7-10 mm wide. It has channels and ribs along it. It is dark green with a reddish base. The flowering stem is 25-60 cm high. There are 1-8 flowers. There are 2 or 3 loose sheathing bracts. The flowers are self pollinating and often are only open for a short time on hot days.
There are about 70 Thelymitra species mostly in Australia and the Pacific. Possibly also Thelmitra rubra See Gilfedder, L et al, 2003, The Nature of the Midlands. Midlands Bushweb. PO Box 156 Longford, Tasmania. p 107
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows in heathland and open forest. It is usually in coastal areas. It needs a well-composted, well-drained soil. It needs a protected, sunny position. It is sensitive to drought and frost.
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.