Tall potato orchid

Gastrodia procera G.W.Carr

Gastrodia procera, known as tall potato orchid, is a mycotrophic orchid in the Orchidaceae family. It features a sturdy, dark brown to black flowering stem bearing up to seventy cinnamon-brown, tubular flowers with white interiors. This species is found in high rainfall forests of southeastern Australia, including New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria.

Description

Gastrodia procera is a leafless terrestrial orchid that relies on mycorrhizal fungi for nutrients. It is distinguished by its robust, dark-colored flowering stem and unique floral structure. The plant is distributed across several regions in southeastern Australia and thrives in high rainfall environments. The species was first described in 1991 by G.W.Carr.