Caladenia busselliana, Bussell's spider orchid, is a rare terrestrial orchid native to southwestern Western Australia. It thrives in moist, sandy soils.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch leaves. Dappled shade is ideal.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow potting medium to dry slightly between waterings during active growth. Reduce significantly during dormancy.
Well-draining, sandy loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Enjoys moderate temperatures, with cooler periods during winter dormancy to encourage flowering. Avoid extreme fluctuations.
Low
25% intensity
Use a very dilute orchid fertilizer sparingly during the active growth period only. Avoid over-fertilization.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water sparingly during dormancy, allowing the potting medium to dry out completely between waterings.
Increase watering frequency as new growth appears in autumn, maintaining slight moisture but avoiding waterlogging to prevent root rot. Reduce watering again as the plant enters its summer dormancy.
Pruning is minimal for Caladenia busselliana. Remove spent flower stalks once blooming is complete to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent energy waste.
Inspect for any dead or diseased leaves and trim them back to the base of the plant as needed.
Propagation is primarily achieved through tuber division when repotting, usually in late summer or early autumn before new growth starts. Carefully separate dormant tubers, ensuring each division has at least one viable bud, and replant them in fresh potting mix.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the potting medium begins to break down, typically in late summer or early autumn before the onset of active growth. Use a well-draining orchid mix, such as a bark-based substrate with added perlite or charcoal, to ensure good aeration.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bussell's Spider Orchid (Caladenia busselliana)
Where Bussell's Spider Orchid (Caladenia busselliana) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Caladenia |
| Species | Caladenia busselliana |
Similar in genus Caladenia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
