Botanical name:

Caladenia lyallii

Common name(s):

About:

This orchid is present in beech forests and montane grasslands across the country, primarily from the Bay of Plenty southward. It features a singular green leaf approximately 10cm in length and produces 1 to 4 delicate white to pink flowers on a stem that reaches about 20cm tall during summer. For optimal visual impact, it is recommended to cultivate it in small clusters. This orchid, which tends to have a short lifespan, thrives in rock gardens or alpine houses. It prefers rich, somewhat sandy soil and requires shade for ideal growth conditions.

Natural habitat:

Montane in tussock grassland, subalpine scrub, or in beech (Nothofagus Blume) forest. Also common in montane pine plantations.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

North, South and Stewart Islands of New Zealand.

Height: 20cm

Flowering:

November – December with a coloured red/pink or white flower/s

Fruiting:

December - March

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Forests & Flowers.

How to grow:

Difficult & should not be removed from the wild.