Eastern Queen of Sheba facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eastern Queen of Sheba |
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|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Thelymitra
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| Species: |
speciosa
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The Thelymitra speciosa, also known as the eastern Queen of Sheba, is a beautiful type of orchid. It belongs to the Orchidaceae family. This special flower grows only in the south-west part of Western Australia. It has a single, tall, dark green leaf that spirals upwards. Its flowers are glossy and purplish, with reddish edges and yellowish borders. You can also spot two bright yellow or orange parts on the sides of its column.
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What Does the Eastern Queen of Sheba Orchid Look Like?
The eastern Queen of Sheba orchid is a tuberous plant. This means it has a special underground storage part, like a potato. It is also a perennial herb, which means it lives for more than two years and has soft stems.
Its Unique Leaf
The orchid has one upright, dark green leaf. Near its purplish base, the leaf is shaped like an egg. Then, it quickly becomes narrow, channelled, and spirals. This leaf is usually about 30–70 mm (1–3 in) long and 4–7 mm (0.2–0.3 in) wide.
Its Stunning Flowers
This orchid produces one or two glossy, purplish flowers. Each flower has broad reddish edges and yellowish margins. They are quite large, measuring 30–50 mm (1.2–2.0 in) across. These flowers grow on a stem that stands 100–200 mm (4–8 in) tall. The sepals and petals of the flower are about 15–25 mm (0.6–1 in) long and 6–10 mm (0.2–0.4 in) wide.
The Column and Its Features
The central part of the flower, called the column, is purplish. It is about 5–7 mm (0.2–0.3 in) long and 2 mm (0.08 in) wide. On the back of the column, there are tiny finger-like glands. What makes this orchid stand out are the two bright yellow or orange ear-like parts on the sides of the column.
When Does It Bloom?
These beautiful flowers are pollinated by insects. They open up wide on hot, sunny days. You can usually see the eastern Queen of Sheba orchid flowering in August and September.
How Was This Orchid Named?
The scientific name for this orchid, Thelymitra speciosa, was officially given in 2009. It was first described by a scientist named Jeff Jeanes. His description was published in a scientific journal called Muelleria.
Meaning of Its Name
The second part of its scientific name, speciosa, comes from a Latin word. It means "showy" or "splendid." This name was chosen because it is a "very spectacular and showy species." It truly lives up to its name, looking like a queen!
Where Does This Orchid Live?
The eastern Queen of Sheba orchid grows in specific areas of Western Australia. It likes places that are wet during winter. You can find it among dense shrubs. Its habitat stretches between the Stirling Ranges and Lake Grace. These areas are part of the Avon Wheatbelt, Esperance Plains, and Mallee biogeographic regions.
Is It Protected?
Good news! The Thelymitra speciosa is currently classified as "not threatened." This means it is not in danger of disappearing. The Western Australian Government's Department of Parks and Wildlife keeps track of its status.
