Contents
Description
Caladenia Flava, also known as the Yellow Spider Orchid, is a species of orchid that is endemic to Australia. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae, and is known for its unique appearance and delicate beauty. The plant is named after its spider-like appearance, with long, slender petals that resemble spider legs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Caladenia |
Appearance
Caladenia Flava is a small, delicate plant that grows up to 40cm in height. It has slender, green leaves that grow in a rosette at the base of the stem. The stem itself is thin and wiry, and produces one or two flowers at a time. The flowers are typically yellow, with long, slender petals that resemble spider legs. The center of the flower is adorned with a small, dark red or black spot, which adds to the plant’s unique appearance.
Care Guide
Caladenia Flava is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as you provide it with the right conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful orchid:- Water: Caladenia Flava prefers to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant once a week, and be sure to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer, and dilute it to half strength.- Soil: Caladenia Flava prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a commercial orchid mix, or make your own by mixing equal parts of perlite, peat moss, and bark.- Sunlight: Caladenia Flava prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Caladenia Flava is best suited to USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Caladenia Flava is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be hard to see, but can cause significant damage to the plant. Look for fine webbing on the leaves, and treat with an insecticidal soap.- Mealybugs: These pests are easy to spot, as they look like small balls of cotton on the leaves. Treat with an insecticidal soap.- Root rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is not sitting in water, and be sure to use well-draining soil.
Habitat
Caladenia Flava is native to Australia, and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including open forests, heathlands, and grasslands. The plant prefers well-draining soils, and can tolerate a range of conditions, from full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Caladenia Flava?
A: Water your Caladenia Flava once a week, and be sure to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What type of soil is best for Caladenia Flava?
A: Caladenia Flava prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a commercial orchid mix, or make your own by mixing equal parts of perlite, peat moss, and bark.
Q: Can Caladenia Flava be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Caladenia Flava can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: What is the best way to fertilize Caladenia Flava?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer, and dilute it to half strength.
Related Plants
– Caladenia Carnea- Caladenia Coccinea- Caladenia Dilatata- Caladenia Maculata
References
– Australian Native Plants Society (Australia), 2014. Caladenia Flava. Available at: https://anpsa.org.au/c-fla.html- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Western Australia, 2021. Caladenia Flava. Available at: https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/22510- Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, 2021. Caladenia Flava. Available at: https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/plants/plant-stories/caladenia-flava
