Swamp greenhood Pterostylis micromega

Key Features

  • A ‘greenhood’ orchid with an erect stem with leaves scattered up it. Leaves are up to 5 cm long and have a crinkled margin. Large, solitary pale green flowers are borne at the top of the stem, and are relatively large for the size of the plant (2.5-4 cm long).

Distribution and Habitat

  • Bogs ands swamps in the North Island and northern South Island. Formerly more widespread than its current distribution.

Threats

  • Habitat modification and loss (drainage, infilling).
  • Competition with exotic plants.
  • Disturbance by stock and wild pigs.

Management Opportunities

  • Survey for new locations.
  • Mark known sites.
  • Protection of habitat.
  • Weed control.
  • Exclude stock.
  • Control pigs.

Monitoring Options

  • Check existing populations annually.
  • Report new locations to DOC, NZPCN.

Further Information and Support

  • New Zealand Plant Conservation Network (NZPCN). http://www.nzpcn.org.nz
  • Weed and pest management - DOC, Regional Councils
  • References
    • St George, I. (1999). The nature guide to New Zealand native orchids. Random House, Auckland.
    • Hollard, V. & Clements, N. (1994). A beginner’s field guide to the native orchids of New Zealand. Published by the authors.
    • Peter de Lange, Peter Heenan, David Norton, Jeremy Rolfe and John Sawyer (2010). Threatened Plants of New Zealand. Canterbury University Press, Christchurch. 472 pp.