Wildflowers in the bush

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

September is when we get an explosion of wildflowers in the bushland.

From the smallest to the largest flowers, they all have a role to play. The largest flowers, on the Banksias, provide birds with nectar. The smallest flowers provide food for, and are pollinated by, the smallest insects.

Some of the most sought after flowers are the orchids. We have at least 20 species of native orchids in this area. Orchids have a special relationship with bushland fungi, whereby the fungi provide food for the orchids. This makes them almost impossible to grow at home.

The most recognisable would have to be the bright yellow Cowslip Orchid, Caladenia flava, and the Donkey Orchids, Diuris sp. See if you can spot any as you enjoy Spring in the bush.