This native orchid stands out for its stunning flowers, large yellow blooms with cream or pink tones and magenta flecks appearing on some petals. A perennial herb which produces small clusters of flowers borne on stems up to 30cm high in Spring, it goes through a dormant period in Summer, storing nutrients in underground tubers for the following years growth. This orchid grows fairly commonly in its wild habitat across Western Australia, and is well suited to container growing in other regions. As a terrestrial orchid it requires a well-drained soil and good air-circulation, and will do best in a protected position with partial shade. The attractive strappy foliage and the unique delicate flowers make it well worth growing as a feature plant for gardens and courtyards, and it’s eye-catching flowers are also very attractive to native bees.
Caladenia flava – Cowslip Orchid
Plant Information
Plant Type - Clumping perennial, Orchid
Common Name - Cowslip Orchid
Scientific Name - Caladenia flava
Family - Orchidaceae
Cultivar Name -
Other Common Name -
Minimum Height - 0.05
Maximum Height - 0.3
Minimum Width - 0.1
Maximum Width - 0.5
Flower Colour - Cream, Yellow, Red, Pink
Flowering Time - Spring
pH Level - Acid, Neutral
Soil Type - Sandy, Sandy loam, Potting mix
Plant Environment - Courtyard, Container growing, Flower garden
Climate Zone - Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Cool temperate, Mediterranean
Light - Half shade
Growth Habit - Deciduous
Life Span - Perennial
Soil Moisture - Well-drained, Needs regular watering
Propagation Method -
Frost Tolerance - Not frost tolerant
Plant Usage - Feature plant, Wow factor
Special Uses - Cut flower, Honey producing plant
Attracts Wildlife - Bees, Other insects
Angus Cultivar -