Yellow Spider Orchid
Caladenia tentaculata (and Caladenia denticulata)
Yellow Spider Orchid is a unique Australian native terrestrial orchid with spidery greenish-yellow flowers and red stripes. These rare and specialized orchids captivate with their unusual appearance and delicate fringed labellum.
Orchidaceae (Orchid family)
Spring (September-November in Australia; corresponds to April-June in Northern Hemisphere)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: cobra lilys and canarinas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Australian spider orchids represent the incredible diversity and specialization of Australia's unique flora. The genus Caladenia contains approximately 350 species, mostly endemic to Australia. These orchids' dependence on specific fungal partners and pollinators makes them indicators of ecosystem health. Their intricate relationships with mycorrhizal fungi exemplify the interconnectedness of nature. "Caladenia" comes from Greek "kallos" (beauty) and "aden" (gland), referring to the colorful labellum and glistening glands. Spider orchids are cherished subjects for nature photographers and symbols of Australia's irreplaceable biodiversity.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Filtered sunlight to partial shade; grows under tree canopy in nature
Water
Winter-spring moisture; dry summer dormancy is essential
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Gravelly, Low nutrient, Often associated with limestone or granite
Expert Growing Tips
EXTREMELY difficult to cultivate outside natural habitat
Requires symbiotic relationship with specific mycorrhizal fungi to survive
Not suitable for typical home gardens; best appreciated in wild
Tubers go dormant after flowering, requiring dry summer period
Plants are deciduous, dying back completely after spring
Single hairy leaf emerges before flowering stem
Pollinated by specific native insects
Many species are threatened or endangered—never collect from wild
Support conservation through native habitat preservation
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Specialized native plant collections
- Botanical gardens and conservation displays
- Australian native gardens (difficult to cultivate)
- Photography and nature appreciation
- Educational displays on orchid ecology
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Yellow Spider Orchid
can you grow spider orchids at home?
Spider orchids (Caladenia species) are extremely difficult to grow at home as they require specific mycorrhizal fungi to survive and cannot be cultivated without this symbiotic relationship. They are best appreciated in their natural habitat or botanical gardens.
why are spider orchids so rare?
Spider orchids are rare due to their highly specialized needs: specific fungal partners, particular pollinators, precise soil conditions, and habitat requirements. Many species are threatened by habitat loss, making conservation critical.
where do yellow spider orchids grow?
Yellow spider orchids grow in open forests, woodlands, and heathlands across southeastern Australia, particularly Victoria, South Australia, and New South Wales. They prefer well-drained soils under eucalyptus or casuarina trees.
what do spider orchids need to survive?
Spider orchids need symbiotic mycorrhizal fungi in the soil for nutrients, winter-spring rainfall followed by dry summer dormancy, filtered light under trees, well-drained soil, and specific native pollinators for reproduction.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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