June 7, 2025

Local authority John Ross to lead native orchid workshop

THE Coffs Harbour Branch of the Australian Plant Society is meeting to look at the cultivation of native orchids on Tuesday, 10 June.

Leading the discussion from 7.30pm in the Display Room at Coffs Botanic Garden, will be native plant authority John Ross.

John modestly describes himself not as an expert but as “just a keen amateur”.

He will be discussing epiphytic and lithophytic orchids of Australia as well as his experiences growing them on his home territory in and around Coffs Harbour.

“We have some unique specimens in the country around Coffs Harbour,” said Robert Watt, the Deputy President of Coffs Harbour Australian Plant Society (APS).

“[These include] Phaius australis, which was found within the boundary of the Botanic Garden when it was created in the 1970s.

“The Garden has supplied many specimens to other botanic gardens over the last 50 years, as well as increasing our own stock.

“But there are many more than just the Swamp Orchid we can grow.”

This is a free event and the APS encourages others who have similar knowledge to come and share in the discussion.

By Andrea FERRARI

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *