The largest flowering of the Donkey Orchids is Diuris amplissima, another species from southern Western Australia.
This is a species that grows naturally in sandy areas close to water courses such as small creeks and swampy wetland areas.
A terrestrial orchid it is the width of the flower that gives it the common name of Giant Donkey Orchid.
Cultivation
The best method of cultivation is from seed. Seed needs to be collected when ripe. The problem is that like most terrestrial orchids the seed requires the right mycorrhizal fungi in the soil germinate and survive.
Organisations such as the Australian Orchid Society are the best places to obtain information on cultivation.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Diuris amplissima
- Common Name – Giant Donkey Orchid
- Position – Sun to light afternoon shade.
- Soil – Sandy with some moisture.
- Height – To around 70 cm (27 inches)
- Flowers – Yellow with red to brown markings
- Flower size – To 4.5 cm across.
- Flowering Time – Spring
- Foliage – Grass like and tall.