Family: Orchidaceae
Author: Druce (Sm.)
Bibliography: Rep. Bot. Soc. Exch. Club Brit. Isles, 1916: 611, 1917
Year: 1917
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Caladenia
Vegetable: False
Observations: Jawa to New Caledonia and New Zealand
Description
Caladenia catenata, commonly known as White Fingers, is an exquisite and delicate member of the Orchidaceae family. This graceful orchid is notable for its attractive and slender white flowers that adorn slender stems, resembling a delicate, outstretched hand – thus earning its common name.
White Fingers showcase a fascinating geographical distribution, with observations spanning diverse regions from Jawa to New Caledonia and New Zealand. This wide range indicates the species’ adaptability to various climatic and ecological conditions within these regions.
Originally documented in the early 20th century, Caladenia catenata was formally described by Druce (Sm.) in the Report of the Botanical Society and Exchange Club of the British Isles in 1916. The comprehensive description was published in 1917, providing an essential resource for botanists and plant enthusiasts fascinated by the rich diversity within the Orchidaceae family.
The distinct white flowers of Caladenia catenata emerge typically in spring and early summer, heralding the season with their subtle and enchanting beauty. These flowers feature long, slender petals and sepals, often slightly curved, contributing to their ethereal appearance. The labellum, or lip, of the flower is characterized by its unique shape and is adorned with fine, intricate patterns, enhancing its allure.
As with many orchids, the conservation of White Fingers is crucial given the specialized habitats they occupy and the threats posed by habitat destruction and climate change. Their presence across several geographical locations suggests a resilience that, with proper conservation efforts, can ensure the survival of this captivating species for future generations to admire and study.
The study and appreciation of Caladenia catenata not only contribute to our understanding of orchid diversity but also underscore the interconnectedness of ecosystems across vast regions from Jawa to New Caledonia and New Zealand. Hence, this delicate orchid stands as a testament to the intricate beauty of nature and the importance of preserving it.
Common Names
Eng: white caladenia, white fingers
En: White Fingers, White Caladenia
: White fingers
Synonyms
- Caladenia alba (R.Br.)
- Petalochilus javanicus ((Benn. ex Ridl.) D.L.Jones & M.A.Clem.)
- Caladenia javanica (Benn. ex Ridl.)
- Petalochilus catenatus ((Sm.) D.L.Jones & M.A.Clem.)
- Arethusa catenata (Sm.)
- Caladenia carnea var. alba ((R.Br.) Benth.)
Distribution
- Antipodean Is. (native)
- Chatham Is. (native)
- Jawa (native)
- Lesser Sunda Is. (native)
- New Caledonia (native)
- New South Wales (native)
- New Zealand North (native)
- New Zealand South (native)
- Queensland (native)
- Sulawesi (native)
- Victoria (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Oct 5, 2022 by Goulidan Finch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 7, 2018 by Coordination Endemia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 13, 2022 by nea_alessandro (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 17, 2018 by jean-louis redon (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 12, 2019 by Shania Coulson (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Sep 3, 2016 by Endemia – Christian LAUDEREAU (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Sep 16, 2010 by Endemia – Jean-Jacques Villegente (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 3, 2016 by Endemia – Christian LAUDEREAU (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Endemia – Daniel & Irène Létocart (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Endemia – Daniel & Irène Létocart (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Endemia – Gildas Gateblé (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Sep 6, 2015 by Endemia – C. Laudereau (cc-by-nc)
Bark
Taken Sep 24, 2011 by Endemia – Benoît Henry (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2842021)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:119571-3)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Caladenia catenata (Sm.) Druce)