Caladenia hoffmanii, graniticola – Hoffman’s and Pingaring Spider Orchids

These two orchids are very similar and were originally both named as subspecies of C. hoffmanii. Both species have a pointed labellum that does not curl underneath as much as most other Spider orchids and flowers 4-6cm long on stems up to 20cm tall. The primary difference is their distribution. In this photographers opinion, they may well be isolated remnants of a single previously widespread species. Both species are rather rare and are listed as threatened flora.

Caladenia hoffmanii - Hoffman's Spider Orchid

The Hoffman's Spider Orchid is named in honour of Noel Hoffman, co-author of Orchids of South West Australia. The orchid is found in rocky habitat or in adjacent sand plains.

Caladenia hoffmanii - Hoffman's Spider Orchid

Caladenia hoffmanii x longicauda subsp. eminens - Hoffman's Hybrid

This orchid is a hybrid between the Hoffman's Spider Orchid and the Daddy-long-legs Spider Orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. borealis). The two parent species were growing in different habitats about 150m apart. The Daddy-long-legs Spider Orchid was in a wet area and the Hoffman's Spiders were on the slopes of a nearby rise.

Caladenia hoffmanii x longicauda subsp. borealis - Hoffman Hybrid

Caladenia graniticola - Pingaring Spider Orchid

The Pingaring Spider Orchid is found around granite outcrops in the eastern Wheatbelt. It usually has more colourful flowers than Hoffman's Spider Orchid.