The next time you're strolling through the Tropical Shade Garden at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, don’t forget to look up – Queensland’s iconic floral emblem is in bloom.
The vibrant Cooktown Orchid, a dazzling species of Dendrobium, is currently flowering among the branches and rocks of the garden’s shaded paths. Known for its striking purple hues and delicate structure, the orchid holds a special place in Queensland’s identity and is often a favourite trivia tidbit for anyone road-tripping the Bruce Highway.
Botanic Gardens staff say the orchid is part of a broader group of species commonly referred to as the Cooktown Orchid and is well worth hunting down.
“It forms small to medium-sized, slender clumps on trees and rocks,” a spokesperson said.
“Visitors are encouraged to look upwards while exploring – the flowers can be easy to miss if you’re only scanning the ground.”
Beyond their visual beauty, these native orchids are part of the Botanic Gardens’ ongoing mission to conserve plant species under threat. Through careful cultivation and protection, the gardens provide a sanctuary for species that may struggle to survive in the wild.
“Here at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, we protect and conserve many plants under pressure to help ensure their survival into the future,” the spokesperson said.
“Come and visit to see them – and be a part of their survival.”
With the weather cooling down and the gardens bursting to life, now is the perfect time to take a quiet moment, tilt your gaze skyward, and catch a glimpse of one of Queensland’s most treasured blooms.
Photo credit: Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
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