Oeceoclades calcarata (Schltr.) Garay & P. Taylor 1976 is a ground orchid, means a terrestrially growing orchid species, native to Madagascar, the fourth-largest island in the world.

Whilst the prehistoric breakup of the supercontinent Gondwana, Madagascar split from India around 88 million years ago and became a unique biodiversity hotspot. Over 90 percent of Madagascar`s wildlife isn`t found anywhere else on Earth. Unfortunatly this ecosystem is endangered by the conquest of a rapidly growing population. The large-sized ground orchid Oeceoclades calcarata grows at elevations of 1000 to 2000 meters. Inflorescences reach lengths up to about 1,5 meters and carry up to 40 small, greenish flowers. Flowers get a size of just about 2 cm in diameter. Flowering period: Autumn - Spring.

Oeceoclades calcarata orchids are protected by CITES Appendix II (trade controlled to avoid use incompatible with species survival). The tropical ground orchid requires intermediate temperatures and bright light. After the growth season waterings should be restricted to a minimum level. Unfortunatly the beautiful, tropical orchid is considered as “flower shy”.

Flower Photography © OrchidsFlowers.com
Image: Ground Orchid Oeceoclades calcarata
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee

Flower Photography © OrchidsFlowers.com
Image: Ground Orchid Oeceoclades calcarata
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee