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Carbunup King Spider Orchid
Caladenia procera Hopper & A.P.Br. 2001

Synonyms

Notes

The Carbunup King Spider Orchid is one of the tallest and largest-flowered Spider Orchids of Australia, making it a spectacular sight. At the same time it is restricted to a very small area near Busselton in south-western WA. Despite this narrow geographic range, the orchids are locally common in remnant woodland and heathland, the peak flowering period being early to mid spring. The Carbunup King Spider Orchid is easily identified by its tall stature and large yellow flowers with a characteristic yellow and red labellum. While the sepals are prominently clubbed, the stiffly held petals are pointed and without clubbing.

Photos

Caladenia procera
The flowers are mostly yellow with prominently clubbed sepals and pointed petals. (Busselton, WA, 20 / 09 / 2018)
Caladenia procera
Another view of the characteristic yellow flower. (Busselton, WA, 28 / 09 / 2019)
Caladenia procera
The labellum is yellow with a prominent red tip. (Busselton, WA, 20 / 09 / 2018)
Caladenia procera
The comparison with a human thumb illustrates the large size of the flowers. (Busselton, WA, 20 / 09 / 2018)
Caladenia procera
View of the full plant. (Busselton, WA, 20 / 09 / 2018)
Caladenia procera
View of the woodland habitat. (Busselton, WA, 20 / 09 / 2018)

References