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Description
Caleana Major, also known as the Flying Duck Orchid or Duck Orchid, is a small terrestrial orchid native to Australia. It is named after the shape of its flowers, which resemble a duck in flight. The plant grows up to 25cm tall and bears a single, fleshy leaf. The flowers are borne on a slender, wiry stem and range from yellow to reddish-brown in colour. They have a distinctive labellum or lip that is shaped like a duck’s bill and is reddish-brown in colour with black markings. The flowers are pollinated by male sawflies that are attracted to the flower’s shape and colour.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Caleana |
Appearance
Caleana Major has a distinctive appearance that makes it easily recognisable. The plant grows up to 25cm tall and bears a single, fleshy leaf. The flowers are borne on a slender, wiry stem and range from yellow to reddish-brown in colour. They have a distinctive labellum or lip that is shaped like a duck’s bill and is reddish-brown in colour with black markings. The flowers are about 2cm long and 1cm wide.
Care Guide
Caleana Major is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly but not excessively. Fertilise the plant with a balanced fertiliser every two weeks during the growing season. The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight and should be kept in a warm location with temperatures between 15°C and 30°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Caleana Major is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered, so ensure the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Caleana Major is native to Australia, where it is found in heathlands and open forests. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate dry conditions. It is best grown in a pot in a well-draining soil mix.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Caleana Major be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Caleana Major can be grown indoors as long as it is kept in a warm location with bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should Caleana Major be fertilised?
A: Caleana Major should be fertilised every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertiliser.
Q: What is the best temperature range for Caleana Major?
A: Caleana Major prefers a warm location with temperatures between 15°C and 30°C.
Q: Is Caleana Major a rare plant?
A: Caleana Major is not considered a rare plant, but it is protected in some areas due to habitat loss.
Related Plants
– Caladenia carnea- Drakaea glyptodon- Pterostylis curta
References
– “Caleana major (R.Br.) R.Br.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 4 June 2021. – “Caleana major – Flying Duck Orchid.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Accessed 4 June 2021. – “Caleana major.” Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. Accessed 4 June 2021.
