Spring has sprung at Cronulla Public School.
Alongside vases of orchid arrangements, pupils put their floral artistry to the creative test ahead of a popular annual flower show.
The Southern Orchid Spectacular (October 11-13) is the event that has inspired children to tap into their drawing skills.
Irene Chalmers NSW Orchid Society was at the school this month to present native Australian orchids for year 3 and 4 classes, to grow and observe in their majestic wonder as they sprouted.
The native hybrids also carry an important message - natural protection. Australian orchids are found only in Australia, which raises the importance of preserving their habitat, Mrs Chalmers said.
"The shire is rich in native orchids," Mrs Chalmers said.
"You will find Dendrobium linguiforme (tongue orchid) growing on the foreshore of Port Hacking, and Dendrobium teretifolium (rats tail orchid) growing in trees in the swampy areas. Dendrobium speciosum (rock orchid) grows on boulders, while Cymbidium suave grows in the trees. Many terrestrial orchids grow in the shire, including Caladenia species and donkey orchids Diuris species."
She said that the nursery grown Dendrobium aemolum orchids she gave to the school were much more likely to survive than plants taken from the bush.
Pupils will paint the orchids as they emerge in the next few weeks, for judging in late September.
They will have free entry to see their artworks on display at the Southern Orchid Spectacular, held at Sutherland Basketball Stadium.
