Dipodium punctatum, the Hyacinth Orchid, is an interesting plant, which
occurs naturally at Yallaroo. It is a leafless terrestrial orchid and appears
in large numbers in summer. One or two spikes carry up to 50 flowers in
crowded heads. The flowers are
deep purplish red and are certainly hyacinth-like in appearance. The Hyacinth
Orchid is saprophytic. In other words the plants derives its nourishment from
dead organic material. This means that the orchid is virtually impossible to
bring into cultivation. Perhaps we should ensure the survival of this species
by protecting the native grasslands where this unique plant occurs.