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Synonyms

• Arachnorchis nivalis (Hopper & A.P.Br. 2001) D.L.Jones & M.A.Clem. 2002
• Calonemorchis nivalis (Hopper & A.P.Br. 2001) Szlach. & Rutk. 2003

Notes

The Exotic Spider Orchid is rather unusual in that it grows in coastal heath and amid coastal granite rocks, usually within just a few hundred metres of the ocean. The species is readily identified by its fairly short, bright white, stiffly held sepals and petals. While the sepals are slightly clubbed, the ends of the petals are pointed and without clubbing. The white labellum has a maroon tip and very short fringe segments. Despite growing amid dense coastal scrub, the orchids are generally easy to find, as their white flowers stand out against the surrounding vegetation. They are locally abundant and occasionally form spectacular clumps.

While generally common, the Exotic Spider Orchid is restricted to just a short 30 km stretch of coastline along the Leeuwin–Naturaliste Ridge between Moses Rock and Cape Naturaliste in south-western WA. The peak flowering period ranges from early September until early October. It is often found in the company of other coastal orchid species such as the Broad-lipped Spider Orchid (Caladenia applanata) and the Slender Sun Orchid (Thelymitra vulgaris).

Photos

References

• Caladenia nivalis in the Australian Plant Name Index
• Caladenia nivalis in the Atlas of Living Australia
• Caladenia nivalis in the Western Australian FloraBase