Leporella

What is Leporella fimbriata?

Leporella fimbriata, commonly known as the hare orchid or fringed hare orchid, is the sole species within the flowering plant genus Leporella. It belongs to the orchid family, Orchidaceae, and is endemic to the southern regions of the Australian mainland. This terrestrial orchid is distinguished by its unique labellum, which is fringed and spotted, and it notably lacks hairy leaves, a characteristic found in some related orchid genera.

Description and Characteristics

As a terrestrial, perennial, and deciduous herb, Leporella fimbriata possesses fine, inconspicuous roots and an oval-shaped tuber. The tuber produces two 'droppers' that develop into daughter tubers in subsequent years, utilizing long, root-like stolons to spread away from the parent tuber. The plant typically bears one or two egg-shaped to lance-shaped leaves at the base of its stem. These leaves, often small at the time of flowering, mature to a bluish-green color with reddish veins and can reach up to 40 mm in length and 20 mm in width.

The wiry stem of the hare orchid can grow to a height of 10–25 cm and supports up to three resupinate flowers. Each flower measures approximately 1–3 cm in length and 1 cm in width. The dorsal sepal is dished and curves over the labellum, while the two lateral sepals are narrow and reflexed against the ovary. The petals are erect, linear, and have club-like, glandular-haired ends. The central labellum is about 5 mm long and 10 mm wide, characterized by its hairy texture, greenish color, reddish-brown spots, and a prominent comb-like fringe. The reproductive parts are fused to the column, which has wing-like lateral structures.

Taxonomy and Naming

The species was first formally described in 1840 by John Lindley as Leptoceras fimbriata. It was later placed into its current genus, Leporella, by Alex George in 1971. The genus name Leporella is derived from the Latin word 'lepus' (hare) with the diminutive suffix '-ella,' translating to 'little hare.' The specific epithet 'fimbriata' is Latin for 'fringed,' referring to the distinctive labellum.

Distribution and Habitat

Leporella fimbriata is found across the southern Australian mainland, specifically in the western half of Victoria, throughout southern South Australia, and into southern Western Australia. Its range in Western Australia extends from Shark Bay in the north to Israelite Bay on the south coast. In South Australia, it is present in the south-east, including the Yorke and Eyre Peninsulas. In Victoria, it occurs in the south-west, with noted populations near Anglesea and in the outer suburbs of Melbourne.

This orchid typically inhabits woodland and shrubland environments. It also thrives in heathland and areas that experience winter wetness, often near swampy conditions.

Ecology and Pollination

Leporella fimbriata is a myrmecophyte, meaning it has a relationship with ants. Its pollination is achieved through a fascinating process involving male bull-ants (Myrmecia urens). The ants are attracted to the labellum, and in their attempt to copulate with it, they inadvertently transfer pollen, thus enabling the orchid's reproduction.

Flowering Period

Flowering for Leporella fimbriata generally occurs between March and June. However, the remnants of the flowers can often be observed well into September.