Caladenia arrecta, the reaching spider orchid, is a terrestrial orchid endemic to Western Australia, known for its distinctive, elongated petals.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight or bright shade. Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.
Moderate during growth, low during dormancy
50% intensity
Allow substrate to dry slightly between waterings in active growth. Keep barely moist when dormant.
Well-drained, sandy loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Ideal daytime temperatures are 20-25°C, with a nighttime drop to 10-15°C. Avoid extreme fluctuations.
Low during growth, none during dormancy
25% intensity
Use a diluted orchid fertilizer monthly during the growing season. Do not fertilize when the plant is dormant.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water sparingly during active growth, allowing the potting mix to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during dormancy, keeping the substrate just moist enough to prevent complete desiccation.
Overwatering is a common cause of root rot.
Pruning is generally not required for Caladenia arrecta. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves at the base of the plant using clean scissors or a knife to maintain tidiness and prevent potential disease spread.
Focus on healthy growth.
Propagation of Caladenia arrecta is best achieved through division of established tubers during repotting. Gently separate the plant into sections, ensuring each division has at least one healthy tuber and some roots.
Allow cuts to dry before replanting.
Repot Caladenia arrecta every 2-3 years, or when the potting mix begins to break down. The ideal time is after flowering when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Use a well-draining orchid mix, such as a bark-based substrate.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Reaching Spider Orchid (Caladenia arrecta)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Caladenia |
| Species | Caladenia arrecta |
Similar in genus Caladenia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
