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Yellow lady's slipper

Cypripedium parviflorum · Orchidaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant yellow lady's slipper: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Family
Orchidaceae
Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
Spring (April to May)
Adult size
25 to 60 cm in height
Hardiness
Very hardy (down to -30°C)
Origin
North America
Growth
Slow
Soil type
Moist, rich in organic matter, slightly acidic

Care

Watering

Keep the soil constantly moist but well-drained, especially during spring growth. During the winter dormancy period (after flowering), gradually reduce watering. Avoid hard water which could damage this delicate orchid.

Light exposure

Prefer a partially shaded location or dappled light, where direct sunlight is filtered. In its natural habitat, this plant grows in the understory of temperate forests. Excessive direct sunlight can dry out the foliage and reduce flowering.

Soil preparation

Create a humus-rich substrate with blonde peat or fine bark, supplemented with perlite or pumice stone to ensure drainage. Amend with forest compost or well-decomposed organic matter to recreate an environment close to its natural habitat.

Fertilizing

Apply a balanced, highly diluted fertilizer (half strength) during the growing season (spring to early summer), once a month. Stop feeding from late summer onward to respect the winter dormancy period. Avoid high concentrations which could burn the roots.

Pruning and maintenance

No real pruning is necessary. Simply remove dead or damaged leaves as they appear. After flowering, let the foliage decline naturally: this is a vital rest process for the plant.

Pests and diseases

Watch out for aphids and spider mites that can establish themselves indoors or in greenhouses. Stagnant excess moisture can promote root rot or fungal issues. Ensure good air circulation and monitor humidity to prevent these problems.

Did you know?

Cypripedium parviflorum, also called the 'Yellow Lady's Slipper', fascinates botanists with its strange pouch-shaped labellum. This terrestrial orchid, extremely slow to cultivate, can take 8 to 12 years before forming a beautiful flowering clump. Once harvested indiscriminately, wild populations have sharply declined in North America, making it a protected species in several states today.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.