Common gnat-orchid facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Common gnat orchid |
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| Cyrtostylis reniformis in Brisbane Ranges National Park, Victoria | |
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Cyrtostylis
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reniformis
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The Cyrtostylis reniformis, also known as the common gnat-orchid, is a special type of orchid. It grows only in eastern Australia. This plant usually has one leaf shaped like a kidney. It also grows a tall stem with up to eight reddish flowers. These flowers have a unique, shelf-like part called a labellum. Another similar orchid, Cyrtostylis huegelii, grows in Western Australia. Some experts think it is a type of Cyrtostylis reniformis.
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What the Common Gnat Orchid Looks Like
The common gnat-orchid is a plant that grows from the ground. It is a perennial herb, which means it lives for more than two years. It is also deciduous, so its leaves fall off at certain times. This orchid has a single leaf that can be kidney-shaped, heart-shaped, or almost round. This leaf is usually about 15 to 40 millimeters (0.6 to 1.6 inches) long. It is also about 10 to 30 millimeters (0.4 to 1.2 inches) wide.
Up to eight dark reddish-brown flowers grow on a stem. Sometimes, these flowers can be yellowish. The stem itself can be 50 to 150 millimeters (2 to 6 inches) tall. Each flower is about 11 to 14 millimeters (0.4 to 0.6 inches) long.
The top part of the flower, called the dorsal sepal, stands up straight. It is curved forward and is about 11.5 to 13 millimeters long. The side sepals are about 10 to 11 millimeters long. The petals are similar to the side sepals and curve downwards. The labellum is a special lip-like part of the flower. It is about 10 to 12.5 millimeters long and looks like a small shelf. It has a few small teeth near its pointed tip. These orchids usually bloom from May to October.
Naming the Common Gnat Orchid
The scientific name Cyrtostylis reniformis was first officially described in 1810. This was done by a botanist named Robert Brown. He published his description in a book called Prodromus Florae Novae Hollandiae et Insulae Van Diemen.
The second part of the name, reniformis, comes from Latin words. "Ren" means "kidney," and "forma" means "shape." So, reniformis means "kidney-shaped." This name describes the shape of the orchid's leaf.
Different Types of Common Gnat Orchid
As of 2018, scientists recognize two main types, or varieties, of this orchid:
- Cyrtostylis reniformis var. huegelii is sometimes seen as its own species, Cyrtostylis huegelii. This type has smaller flowers and leaves. Its leaves and flowers often have a brownish color. You can find it mostly along the coast and in forests of Western Australia. It grows in sandy or rocky soils. It likes moist, shady places and often forms small groups. These plants grow between 100 and 300 millimeters (4 to 12 inches) tall when they flower. They bloom between July and September.
- Cyrtostylis reniformis var. reniformis is a stronger, more common type. It grows in the eastern parts of Australia.
Where the Common Gnat Orchid Lives
The eastern Australian type of Cyrtostylis reniformis is very common. You can find it in many places, from coastal bushes to forests. It grows in Queensland, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania.
