Caladenia flava – Cowslip Orchid

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.

Family : Orchidaceae
Cultivar Name:
Plant Type : Clumping perennial, Orchid
Width : 0.5
Flowering Time : Spring
Soil Type : Sandy, Sandy loam, Potting mix
Climate Zone : Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Cool temperate, Mediterranean
Growth Habit : Deciduous
Soil Moisture : Well-drained, Needs regular watering
Special Uses : Cut flower, Honey producing plant
Scientific Name: Caladenia flava
Common Name : Cowslip Orchid
Height : 0.3
Flower Color : Cream, Yellow, Red, Pink
pH Level : Acid, Neutral
Plant Environment : Courtyard, Container growing, Flower garden
Light : Half shade
Lifespan : Perennial
Frost Tolerance : Not frost tolerant
Attracts Wildlife : Bees, Other insects