One of the more widely found of the genus, Caladenia latifolia grows in Tasmania, Southern Victoria and South Australia as well as Southern Western Australia.
Coming from such a wide range, flower colour does vary, mostly pink however white varieties are also found.
Commonly called the Pink Fairy Orchid, the star shaped pink flowers appear in spring and are held on long stems. Each stem carries 2 – 4 flowers and the stems are around 40 cm in height..
The foliage is a mid green with a covering of fine hairs (indumentum}. The lip (labellum) is around 7 mm in length with 3 lobes and attracts pollinating insects.
This is a terrestrial orchid found in open woodland areas as well as areas of coastal scrub.
How To Grow Caladenia latifolia
This is a plant that grows well in a free draining soil and light shade .
- A free draining soil or potting mix is essential to prevent the tubers from rotting
- A potting mix with extra drainage material such as coarse sand, horticultural grit or perlite should work well.
- The growing season is from autumn to spring and light shade during this period, or morning sun and afternoon shade is best.
- The plants should be kept in moist soil during active growth.
- After flowering the plants need to be allowed to die back and the soil dry out over the summer months.
- To germinate seed you will need to micorrhizal fungi to ensure success. We suggest joining the Australian Native Orchid Society to gain specific knowledge about these wonderful orchids.