Caleana, Orchid
Caleana is a genus of terrestrial orchids in the family Orchidaceae, containing two species, Caleana major and Caleana minor. These two species are native to Australia. The genus is commonly known as Flying Duck Orchid because of the shape of its labellum which looks like a duck's head, and the whole orchid resembles a flying duck. The flower is pollinated by male sawfly. The genus is named after George Caley, an early botanical collector. Caleana major (Large Duck Orchid) grows in groups in heath, woodland and open forests, usually in exposed sunny locations. This species is difficult to spot due to its size and the inconspicuous color. The green stem is 40 cm tall, bearing a 10 cm long reddish-colored leaf . In September to January, 2-4 'upside-down' flowers are produced on each stem. Each flower is 15-20 mm long. A sensitive strap attaches the deep red labellum to the rest of the flower. When the pollinator (sawfly) touches the sensitive labellum, it snaps shut, trapping the insect inside the sticky body of the column. The sawfly then deposits any pollen it may carry and picks up some. It is then released to fly and pollinate other orchids.  Caleana major Author: Poyt448 (public domain) | ||
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