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Genus Cypripedium (Lady's slipper orchid)

sip-rih-PEE-dee-um

Common Name: Lady's slipper orchid

In this genus are 45 to 50 species of terrestrial orchids from dry woodlands and marshes of the Americas, Europe, and Asia. The stunning, unusual flowers resemble slippers and have 3 prominent, often slightly twisted, tepals. Lady's slipper orchids are very rare due to overcollection and habitat destruction. Be sure plants for the garden are not wild collected. Grow in a woodland garden or shady rock garden.
Noteworthy characteristics: Unmistakable pouched flowers. Very rare; some are close to extinction. They need a cool climate and are very hardy.
Care: Grow in light to part shade in a woodsy soil that is moist and neutral to acidic. Choose a sheltered site. Mulch with leaf mold in winter.
Propagation: Divide carefully in spring, being sure some of the soil from the root ball stays with each division.
Problems: Gray mold, rust, leaf spot, slugs.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Cypripedium

Cypripedium reginae
(Showy lady's slipper) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

This terrestrial orchid has 3 to 7 oval to lance-shaped leaves. Unusual flowers almost 4 inches long, with a rose-pink floral globe under a pair of twisted petals, are borne singly or in pairs on upright stems in summer.