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Smooth-lipped Spider Orchid
Caladenia integra E.Coleman 1933

Synonyms

Notes

While locally common, the Smooth-lipped Spider is restricted to the southern Wheatbelt region of WA where the orchids grow in scattered populations in Sheoak woodland at the base of granite outcrops. The peak flowering season is mid spring, slightly later than that of the closely related Fringed Mantis Orchid (Caladenia falcata) which is found over a similar geographic range.

The Smooth-lipped Spider Orchid is readily distinguished from the Fringed Mantis Orchid by its smooth labellum edges and generally taller plants. Where the two species grow together, the Smooth-lipped Spider Orchid usually flowers a few weeks later than the Fringed Mantis Orchid, although there is significant overlap. The colour of the petals and sepals is variable and ranges from green to cream-coloured and dark red.

Photos

Caladenia integra
The Smooth-lipped Spider Orchid is easily recognised by the smooth edges of the labellum. (Narrogin, WA, 16 / 10 / 2018)
Caladenia integra
Apart from the smooth-edged labellum, the flowers look very similar to those of the Fringed Mantis Orchid (Caladenia falcata). (Narrogin, WA, 16 / 10 / 2018)
Caladenia integra
Flower colour is variable and ranges from pale green... (Narrogin, WA, 16 / 10 / 2018)
Caladenia integra
...to dark red and anywhere in between. (Narrogin, WA, 16 / 10 / 2018)
Caladenia integra
Close-up view of the characteristic labellum. (Narrogin, WA, 16 / 10 / 2018)
Caladenia integra
The plants are fairly tall and stand out against the surrounding scrub. (Narrogin, WA, 16 / 10 / 2018)
Caladenia integra
Smooth-lipped Spider Orchids are typically found in Sheoak woodland with a dense heath understorey. (Narrogin, WA, 16 / 10 / 2018)

References