Yellow spectral orchid facts for kids

The yellow spectral orchid, also known by its scientific name Trachoma papuanum, is a special type of orchid. It grows in clumps and can be found living on other plants or rocks. This orchid has thick, green leaves and many dull yellow flowers.

These beautiful orchids are found in places like New Guinea, Queensland in Australia, and some islands in the South Pacific.

What Does the Yellow Spectral Orchid Look Like?

The yellow spectral orchid is a herb that grows in groups. It has thin roots and stems that can be about 3 to 6 centimeters (1.2 to 2.4 inches) long.

Leaves and Flowers

This orchid usually has three to six thick, dark green leaves. They are shaped like an egg and are about 5 to 8 centimeters (2 to 3.1 inches) long. The leaves are arranged in two neat rows.

The orchid produces many pale yellow, cup-shaped flowers. Each flower is small, only about 2 to 3 millimeters (0.08 to 0.12 inches) long. Up to four flowers can be open at the same time.

The flowers have parts called sepals and petals. The sepals are about 5 millimeters long, and the petals are about 4 millimeters long. There is also a special lip-like part called a labellum. It is about 4 millimeters long and has three small sections.

When Does it Bloom?

You can see the yellow spectral orchid flowering from February to April.

Where Does the Yellow Spectral Orchid Live?

The Trachoma papuanum orchid loves to grow in rainforests. It often attaches itself to tree branches, especially those hanging over streams. This helps it get the humidity it needs to grow well.

Places it Calls Home

You can find this orchid in several places around the world. It lives in New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Fiji, Niue, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, the Cook Islands, the Society Islands, and Tubuai. In Australia, it grows in Queensland, specifically between the towns of Cairns and Innisfail.