Sheepless – Pink Shepherds’ Crook Orchid

Geodorum terrestre - Pink Shepherds' Crook Orchid

Geodorum terrestre – Pink Shepherds’ Crook Orchid

Geodorum literally means earth gift and terrestre = terrestrial.

previously known as G. densiflorum

This very attractive ground orchid responds to the early rains of the wet season with rapid, active growth.

The plants grow with tightly packed fleshy pseudobulbs supporting yellowish green, heavily pleated leaves.

The soft pink flowers are presented on a arching stem that allows the flowers to hangs down, perhaps to help them avoid the impact of heavy rainfall on the fertile parts of the flower.

Geodorum terrestre showing crook-like stem

The plants are regarded as widespread and common.

They can be found in a variety of forest types and habitats but a good level of moisture and light are usually required for healthy growth.

Here at Wild Wings & Swampy Things they have gradually worked their way down from the remnant vegetation on the hillsides. They have persisted in patches of Guinea Grass – Panicum maximum but seem unable to penetrate the several different introduced species of Brachiaria sp.

Hence we have a strong desire to rid our property of these dominating exotic grasses and have greatly reduced their presence.

Geodorum terrestre showing colourful flower

While the outside of the flower is a lovely soft pink, the labellum has a heavily veined deep red upper surface with a splash of bright yellow in the center.

The flowers are pollinated by our small stingless honey bees, although some forms are supposed to self pollinate.

I have chosen this last post for 2009 for Denis Wilson who has given me such enjoyment with his regular orchid posts.