This terrestrial orchid varies from upright to a narrow squat and broad habit. It has light green narrow leaves and the variable size blue orchard-like flowers appear in a raceme that opens for a short period of time during early spring.

Hardiness zones 8 to 11 

Thelymitra ixioides is naturally found from Australia to New Zealand and New Caledonia commonly growing in coastal heath. 

It prefers well drained fertile moist sandy soil in a semi shaded to bright filtered light wind protected position and is frost and drought tender. 

The Sun-orchid is an unusual orchid that is grown for its flowers. It is planted in small gardens or rockeries and used as a container plant for its blue flower that only open in sunny position. It is also used in tropical-like settings and establishes from division in 1 to 2 years.

Note:
This plant is not commonly cultivated and may be difficult to obtain requiring a specialist nursery.

Thelymitra (TEL-ee-MEE-tra) ixioides (eex-ee-OY-deez) 

Orchidaceae (or-kid-AY-see-ee)
Orchid Family