Potato orchid
Gastrodia sesamoides R.Br.
Gastrodia sesamoides, known as the potato orchid, is a leafless, terrestrial saprophytic orchid in the family Orchidaceae. It has a thin, fleshy brown flowering stem and up to twenty-five drooping, brownish, self-pollinating flowers that are white inside. It is native to Australia and New Zealand, where it grows in a wide range of habitats.
Description
Gastrodia sesamoides, described in 1810 by R.Br., is a member of the Orchidaceae family. Common names include cinnamon bells, pot-bellied orchid, and cinnamon sticks. It is distributed across several regions in Australia, including the Cape Provinces, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and Western Australia, as well as in New Zealand. This orchid lacks leaves and relies on a saprophytic lifestyle. Its flowers are self-pollinating and hang in clusters from a brown stem.
Other common names
Potato orchid
Distribution
ZA · Cape Provinces · New South Wales · Queensland · South Australia · Tasmania · Victoria · Western Australia
