| Potato orchids
are among the most distinctive species of Tasmanian orchids. These
species are similar, and differ most obviously in size and colour (Gastrodia
sesamoides is smaller and lighter coloured than G. procera).
These plants are saprophytic, and have no chlorophyll and bear only
residual, scale-like leaves. The whole plant is brown. Tall,
unbranched scapes carry several to many flowers. The flowers are
tubular (although rather asymmetrical). The plants are only visible
for the short period that the flowering scape is present, but have
persistent, underground tubers.
These plants are quite common and widespread in open and closed
forests and woodlands. |
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