Waxlip Orchids
Glossodia major
Other Names: Wax Lip Orchids
Family: Orchidaceae
Habitat: Found in woodland on sandstone
Uses: The tubers are edible raw or cooked
About Waxlip Orchids
These are ground or terrestrial orchids (as opposed to tree or epiphytic orchids which grow on other plants).
All ground orchids produce tubers, which were roasted or eaten raw by Aboriginies. Epiphytic tree orchids lack tubers but have thickened stems which can be sucked for their starch.
Photo: Glossodia major. Mitchell Park, Cattai NSW.
See Also
Australian Mammals
Australian Birds
Australian Reptiles
Australian Frogs
Australian Fish
Australian Spiders and Their Faces
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