Cymbidium suave

(Snake Orchid)
 

This locally common epiphytic orchid appears as a clump of strap-like leaves emerging from the hollow hearts of eucalypts like Tallowwoods and Bloodwoods. The roots of the orchid spread through the hollow, with root systems metres long. Though very hardy, it generally cannot be transplanted. When in flower, around November, it puts on a beautiful display of foot-long flower racemes bearing scores of small flowers, each about 20-30mm across. It is strongly perfumed.