Kiandra Leek Orchid - profile

Indicative distribution

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Key:

known

predicted

The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas. ( click here to see geographic restrictions). The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.

Scientific name: Prasophyllum retroflexum

Conservation status in NSW: Vulnerable

Commonwealth status: Vulnerable

Profile last updated: 21 Sep 2021

Description

Prasophyllum is a genus of relatively inconspicuous ground orchids with single clustered spikes of small flowers which may be white, green or reddish and that are non-resupinate (i.e. ‘upside down’ relative to most other orchids) and a single tubular, not flat, leaf. This leaf distinguishes them from the very similar midge orchid genus (Genoplesium), which has recently been created by splitting Prasophyllum. Kiandra Leek Orchid (formerly P. morganii) flowers open very widely and are green with deep purple stripes and blotches, or they may be completely purple. They are sweet-smelling and are arranged densely in a single spike of up to 80 flowers. The single hollow leaf is up to 30 cm tall.

Distribution

All populations are thought to occur within Kosciuszko NP (in the Long Plain, Kiandra, Tantangara area).

Habitat and ecology

The species occurs in subalpine grasslands and woodlands.
Flowering has been recorded between October and December.
Flowers are followed by a fleshy seed capsule.
Plants retreat into subterranean tubers after fruiting, so are not visible above-ground.

Regional distribution and habitat

Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.

Australian Alps

Threats

Pigs rooting for food cause direct damage to the species and to the surrounding habitat.
Competition from the weed Ox-eye Daisy
Horses browse the species and promote the spread of ox-eye daisy, as well as trampling causing direct damage and disturbance.
Grazing and substrate disturbance from rabbits, causes adult mortality and changes the habitat - shifts to more shrubby conditions.

Recovery strategies

A targeted strategy for managing this species has been developed under the Saving Our Species program; click here for details. For more information on the Saving Our Species program click here

Activities to assist this species

Undertake pig control.
Populations should be mapped and monitored.
Searches to be undertaken in likely habitat for further populations.
Control ox-eye daisy where it occurs with this species

Information sources

Bishop, T. (2000) Field Guide to the Orchids of New South Wales and Victoria. (New South Wales University Press, Sydney)
Harden, G.J. (ed.) (1993) Flora of New South Wales Vol. 4. UNSW Press, Kensington, NSW.