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Description
Cypripedium Reginae, commonly known as the Showy Lady’s Slipper, is a species of orchid native to North America. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae and is one of the most popular cultivated orchids. This orchid is characterized by its large, showy, and pinkish-white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to 60 cm in height and prefers to grow in moist and shady areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Cypripedium |
Appearance
The Cypripedium Reginae has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other orchids. The plant has broad leaves that are elliptical in shape and can grow up to 20 cm long. Its flowers are large, showy, and pinkish-white in color with a waxy texture. The petals and sepals of the flower are fused together to form a pouch-like structure that can hold several drops of water. The lip of the flower is white with pink stripes and has a frilly edge. The flowers can grow up to 10 cm in diameter and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
The Cypripedium Reginae requires specific care to thrive and produce healthy blooms. Here are some tips to care for this orchid:
- Water: The plant prefers to grow in moist soil, but make sure not to overwater it. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade and can tolerate up to 4 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cypripedium Reginae is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect its growth and health. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug and snail baits to control them.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Crown rot: This disease can occur due to overwatering or poor drainage. Remove the infected plant parts and treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Leaf spot: This disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove the infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Cypripedium Reginae is native to North America and can be found in wet meadows, bogs, and swamps. It prefers to grow in moist soil and partial shade. The plant is also found in Alaska, Canada, and the northeastern United States.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cypripedium Reginae grow in full sun?
A: No, the plant prefers partial shade and can tolerate up to 4 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Q: How often should I water Cypripedium Reginae?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Do not overwater the plant.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cypripedium Reginae?
A: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 2-7.
Q: How tall can Cypripedium Reginae grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height.
Related Plants
- Cypripedium Acaule
- Cypripedium Calceolus
- Cypripedium Parviflorum
- Cypripedium Pubescens
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/cypripedium_reginae.shtml
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/cypripedium/cypripedium-ladys-slipper.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/21094/Cypripedium-reginae/Details
