About Thelymitra brevifolia Jeanes
Thelymitra brevifolia is a tuberous, perennial herb that grows a single erect, dark green, linear to lance-shaped leaf. This leaf measures 100–260 mm (4–10 in) long and 7–20 mm (0.3–0.8 in) wide, and it often has reddish blotches. Between two and twenty purplish or purplish blue flowers, each 12–22 mm (0.5–0.9 in) wide, are arranged on a flowering stem that reaches 250–600 mm (10–20 in) in height. The sepals and petals are 6–12 mm (0.2–0.5 in) long and 3–6 mm (0.1–0.2 in) wide. The plant's column is pale blue or pale pink, 4–5.5 mm (0.16–0.22 in) long and 2–3 mm (0.08–0.1 in) wide. The lobe on top of the anther ranges in color from yellow to black with a yellow tip, and is barely inflated. The side lobes curve gently upwards and bear mop-like tufts of white hairs. Flowering takes place from September to November. The flowers of this species are self-pollinating, and only open on hot days, opening slowly even when conditions are suitable.
Commonly called the peppertop sun orchid, this orchid is widespread and locally common in southeastern New South Wales, Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory, southeastern South Australia, and on the north and east coasts of Tasmania. It grows in a wide range of habitats, from heath to forest and woodland, and often occurs in disturbed sites.
