About Thelymitra graminea Lindl.
Thelymitra graminea is a tuberous perennial herb. It produces a single erect, leathery, channelled leaf that is 60 to 150 mm (2 to 6 in) long, 5 to 8 mm (0.2 to 0.3 in) wide, and has a purplish base. Between two and ten dark blue to purplish, often strongly scented flowers, each 15 to 20 mm (0.6 to 0.8 in) wide, grow on a flowering stem that is 200 to 500 mm (8 to 20 in) tall. Its sepals and petals are 7 to 10 mm (0.3 to 0.4 in) long and 3 to 5 mm (0.1 to 0.2 in) wide. The column of this orchid is white to pale blue or pinkish, 3.5 to 5 mm (0.1 to 0.2 in) long and 2 to 3 mm (0.08 to 0.1 in) wide. The lobe on the top of the anther is brownish with a yellow tip, or entirely yellow. The side lobes curve toward each other and bear toothbrush-like tufts of white hairs. Flowering takes place in September and October. The flowers are self-pollinating and only open on warm, sunny days. This species is similar to Thelymitra macrophylla, which grows in similar areas, but Thelymitra graminea has narrower leaves, smaller flowers, and flowers earlier than Thelymitra macrophylla. Commonly called the shy sun orchid, this species is locally common across its range. It grows in shrubland, woodland, forest, and on granite outcrops, and occurs between Jurien Bay and Esperance.
