Orchid booty on Mt Wellington

Hopes are high for an endangered Tasmanian orchid after volunteers found dozens of leek orchids plants in Hobart this autumn.

The Tassie orchidmaniacs came across 180 of the dainty Prasophyllum amoenum on Mount Wellington.

This find extends the known range to more than nine kilometres, according to a news report.

Now the Scientific Advisory Committee could change the conservation status of the leek orchid whose numbers were down to a worrying 20.

With the discovery, it is hoped more people will recognise the species and ensure its survival.

Caption: Prasophyllum elatum, a relation of the Prasophyllum amoenum 

By Pamela Kelt