Caladenia pusilla (Tiny Caladenia)

The Tiny caladenia is a very small (5 – 10 mm tall) spider orchid with a sturdy, hairy scape and a single pink flower with blunt rounded shaped petals/sepals.

Colour wise, the strongly pink flowers contrast with the bright green scape. The common name “tiny’ is fitting as this is a very small orchid.

Recorded in the N and NW of Tas but the specimens shown here were seen at Coles Bay 16 October 2024 at Rita and Doris Reserve. Found on dry, thin soil on granite under a light cover of shee-oak. This is the only location I have seen this orchid and I regard it as uncommon. Not seen in Southern Tasmania.