Sarcochilus hillii (F.Muell.) F.Muell.

Scientific Name and Growth Form

Sarcochilus hillii (F.Muell.) F.Muell. is a drooping, epiphytic herb with stems that are 20–50 mm (0.79–2.0 in) long.

Leaf Characteristics

This species has between two and ten linear or quill-shaped leaves measuring 60–100 mm (2.4–3.9 in) long and about 3 mm (0.1 in) wide.

Inflorescence and Flower Appearance

Between two and ten frosty white or pink flowers, 8–10 mm (0.31–0.39 in) long and wide, are arranged on a flowering stem 50–120 mm (2.0–4.7 in) long.

Sepal Dimensions

Its dorsal sepal is 4–6 mm (0.16–0.24 in) long and 3–4 mm (0.12–0.16 in) wide, while the lateral sepals are slightly longer.

Petal Dimensions

The petals are 4–5 mm (0.16–0.20 in) long and about 2.5 mm (0.098 in) wide.

Labellum Structure

The labellum is hairy, about 3–4 mm (0.1–0.2 in) long and 4–5 mm (0.16–0.20 in) wide, and has three lobes.

Labellum Lobe Features

The side lobes are erect with purple stripes on their inner surface, and the middle lobe is densely hairy.

Flowering Period

Flowering occurs between October and December, but only a few flowers are open at any one time.

Habitat

For distribution and habitat, Sarcochilus hillii usually grows on trees in rainforest, often on Backhousia myrtifolia, and occasionally grows on rocks.

Distribution Range

It is found between Rockhampton in Queensland and Bega in New South Wales, and also occurs in New Caledonia.