A colourful array of orchids
Several orchid species are commonly seen around the Park’s pathways and walk trails, including the common donkey orchid (Diuris corymbosa) cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava) and pink fairy orchid (Caladenia latifolia).
For those more seasoned wildflower seekers, the Wunanga Trail is the best spot for the remaining species. We've listed some of the most common orchids here, or you can pick up our Wildflower booklet for some of the harder to find species!
Please remember, it is illegal to pick native wildflowers, so take as many photos as you brings you joy, but leave the orchids as you found them, and be careful about where you step.
Caladenia latifolia
Pink fairy orchid
If you’re taking a walk on the Werrilyiup or Gooolorto Trails, exploring around Mussel Pool, or indeed any low-lying, near-inundated wetland areas, you are likely to spot these delicate orchids en masse! They are a very common species in the Park, making them a great option for those new to wildflower identification.
Flowers pink to white from August through December.
Caladenia flava
Cowslip orchid
The most common of our orchids is also, thankfully, the easiest to spot! These orchids have five bright yellow petals, and are often found in small groups. The cowslips often have red or white markings as well.
These orchids flower from July to December, growing between 10-25cm tall.
Diuris corymbosa
Common donkey orchid
Another easy to spot orchid is the colour, and aptly-named donkey orchid thanks to those two prominent petals sitting up, just like a pair of donkey ears! Standing up to 45cm tall, these yellow and brown orchids usually bloom in September and October. Find them along the Wunanga Trail.
Elythranthera brunonis
Purple enamel orchid
These shiny orchids are a delight to spot amongst the bushland! The Wunanga Trail is the best location for these small herbs.
The flowers, which are just 2-3cm across, give off a glossy appearance thanks to their waxy surface. They are in bloom from August to October.
Eriochius dilatatus
White bunny orchid
Our early bloomers, the flowers of the tiny white bunny orchid are just one centimetre wide. This species is found on the Wunaga Trail. They flower from March to June, with white-cream flowers.