Rare orchid thrives in newly refurbished Orchid House

The rare Tongue Orchid (Bulbophyllum fletcherianum) thinks the newly refurbished Mackay Regional Council Orchid House is blooming fantastic.

The rare orchid hasn’t flowered in a couple of years concerning garden staff.

Communities Services and Facilities portfolio and Acting Parks and Natural Environment portfolio councillor Karen May said since the revamp of the Orchid House the Tongue Orchid has flourished.

“The rare orchid seems to love the new roof, the new paint job and the moist environment at the Orchid House.”

 “Our garden staff take great care in looking after the Tongue Orchid and the 675 other varieties of orchids at the Orchid House, making sure all their needs, and their requirements are being met.”

Facts about the Bulbophyllum fletcherianum

• The Bulbophyllum fletcherianum originates from New Guinea
• it is one of the largest growing orchids in the world, with leaves the shape of tongues growing to almost 1.8 metres (6 feet) from a pseudobulb
• there flowers are burgundy in colour and release an over powering aroma, which attracts blowflies and carrion beetles for pollination and
• they love warm to hot temperatures and high humidity.

Councillor May said the Orchid House is reopened to the public and residents and visitors will need to be quick to catch a glimpse of the Tongue Orchid in bloom.

“Depending on the heat the Tongue Orchid will only be in bloom for a short time.”

“The Tongue Orchid along with the 675 other varieties of orchids on display is an experience you and your family do not want to miss.”

Orchid House
Location: Queens Park, Goldsmith Street, East Mackay
Hours of Operation: 10am – 11am and 2pm – 3pm Monday to Friday, 10am – 2pm Sunday.
Admission: Free

Contact: Rebecca Dumbleton

Phone: 1300 MACKAY (1300 622 529)