1986 Australian Native Orchids

Orchidaceae and Asteraceae are one of the two largest families of flowering plants, with over 28,000 species. Of these, Australia has about 700 orchid species. They range from the flamboyant and spectacular tropical species to the smaller intriguing terrestrials of the more temperature south. Their geographical isolation makes them unique to Australia.

Four Australian native orchids are featured on this stamp issue. The Pink Emerald Orchid (Elythranthera emarginata) on the 36c stamp is an enamel orchid endemic to Western Australia. The 55c stamp features the Blue Antler Orchid (Dendrobium nindii). It grows in Queensland, high up in the trees where there is light and movement. The plant can reach a height of up to two metres.

The Duck Orchid (Caleana major) on the 90c stamp has a highly touch-sensitive lip that temporarily traps insects to gather its pollen as it climbs out, while the Queen of Sheba (Thelymitra variegata) is featured on the $1 stamp.

These stamps can be used within Australia for domestic and international postage to brighten up your cards, letters, and parcels.

Technical Details

Stamp design: Otto Schmidinger and Christine Stead