Common name: Common Donkey Orchid
Family: ORCHIDACEAE
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Origin of Scientific Name
Diuris – (Greek) Di – two, and oura – a tail, referring to the two hanging lateral sepals.
corymbosa – (Latin) from corymbus – a cluster of flowers; referring to the arrangement of flowers on the stems.
Description
Diuris corymbosa is a native orchid growing as a tuberous perennial herb to 45 cm in height and often found growing and flowering in large colonies in bushland during September and October. Plants become dormant in summer when they die back to an underground tuber.
Like any Diuris species, this orchid would be a strong contender for the cutest flower award with its adorable yellow and brown donkey-faced flowers that include two lateral petals that are elongated like ears. Numerous flowers of about 2.5 cm wide are usually found on the one stem.
The Common Donkey Orchid is widespread throughout southwest Western Australia and can be regularly spotted in Kings Park bushland in spring.
Horticultural tips
- Generally only cultivated by experienced orchid enthusiasts
- If you’re fortunate enough to own a remnant piece of bushland then you may have such a gift from nature.
For more horticultural tips view our Plant Notes section.
View in Kings Park
Visit Kings Park and Botanic Garden to see Diuris corymbosa in the Kings Park bushland.
Want more information?
Refer to the profile for this plant on the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions' FloraBase online herbarium.
