Ground orchid, Common Spider Orchid
Caladenia patersonii
Family: Orchidaceae
What it is like
A spider orchid. It has one leaf which is narrow and hairy. The stem is hairy and has 1-3 flowers. Flowers are large. They are 5 cm across. The tail is darker. They can be yellow, brown or red coloured.
There are about 80-160-200 Caladenia species. Many are in Australia.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows in light forested areas. It needs a light, sandy well-drained soil. It needs a protected, partly shaded position. It is damaged by drought or frost.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Tasmania
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Tuber, root
How it is grown
Plants are grown by division.
Flowering occurs August to November.
Its other names
Local names
White spider-orchid