Spiranthes spiralis – Autumn Lady’s Tresses
When thinking of Orchids the UK does not normally come to mind as a source, however Spiranthese spiralis is a native to the UK. A summer dormant species and endowed with the lovely name of Autumn Lady’s Tresses you do not see these very often in Australia, but they are available.
Spiranthes spiralis (Autumn Lady’s Tresses) is wonderful orchid that will reach around .2m. The Autumn part is because this is when it flowers. The flowers are white and usually tend to ‘spiral’ around the stem. An excellent plant for garden border, it does not cope that well with competition so give it some space if possible.
Growing conditions
A humus rich moist but well drained soil, these interesting orchids will appear suddenly in autumn after rain. They could be naturalised into a lawn for an interesting display.
Spiranthes australis syn Spiranthes sinensis is the Austral Ladies Tresses, pink flowers and reaching around 30 – 40 cm depending on conditions, again moist conditions Spiranthes are winter dormant when they die back to their underground tuber. Easy to grow and will spread with a very fine seed. Spiranthes australis is one of the native species of this wide spread group of terrestrial orchids.
Spiranthes spiralis Orchids are available for sale from the following nurseries
PO Box 7040 Leura NSW 2780
Rare woodland plants, Trilliums Epimediums, Arisaemas, plus much more.www.lynnsrareplants.com.au
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au