There is a single smooth, yellow callus ridge 4–5 mm (0.16–0.20 in) long, along the mid-line of the labellum.

[2][3][4] Diuris recurva was first formally described in 2013 by David Jones and Christopher J. French in Australian Orchid Review, from a specimen collected near Wongan Hills in 1997.

[5] The specific epithet (refracta) means "sharply turned back", referring to the labellum.

[4] Dainty donkey orchid grows in moist open forest, shrubland and heathland on slopes, in the area between Northampton, Bindoon, Perenjori and Goomalling in the Avon Wheatbelt, Geraldton Sandplains, Jarrah Forest and Swan Coastal Plain bioregions of south-western Western Australia.

[2][3][4] Diuris refracta is listed as "not threatened" by the Western Australian Government Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.