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Description
Cypripedium Parviflorum, commonly known as Yellow Lady’s Slipper or Moccasin Flower, is a perennial orchid that is native to North America. It is a member of the genus Cypripedium, which comprises of about 50 species of terrestrial orchids. The plant has a unique appearance, with a large yellow pouch-like lip that resembles a slipper, hence its name. It produces one or two leaves and a single flower stem that grows up to 30 inches tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Cypripedium |
Appearance
The Yellow Lady’s Slipper has a unique appearance that distinguishes it from other orchids. The plant produces one or two leaves that are oval-shaped and up to 6 inches long. The flower stem grows up to 30 inches tall and produces a single flower that is about 2 inches wide. The flower has a large yellow pouch-like lip that resembles a slipper, with maroon stripes on the petals and sepals. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer, and the flowers can last up to two weeks.
Care Guide
Yellow Lady’s Slipper is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. However, here are some care tips to help your plant grow healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause the roots to rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
- Soil: Plant the Yellow Lady’s Slipper in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade, as direct sunlight can damage the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The Yellow Lady’s Slipper can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yellow Lady’s Slipper is generally free from pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug and snail bait or copper tape to protect your plant.
- Fungal diseases: The plant can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as black rot and powdery mildew. Use a fungicide to treat the affected plant.
Habitat
The Yellow Lady’s Slipper is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and wet meadows. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full shade. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Yellow Lady’s Slipper be propagated by division?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the fall.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Yellow Lady’s Slipper?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the Yellow Lady’s Slipper grow in full sun?
A: No, the plant prefers partial shade to full shade, as direct sunlight can damage the leaves and flowers.
Q: How long do the flowers of the Yellow Lady’s Slipper last?
A: The flowers of the plant can last up to two weeks.
Related Plants
- Cypripedium reginae (Showy Lady’s Slipper)
- Cypripedium acaule (Pink Lady’s Slipper)
- Cypripedium pubescens (Yellow Lady’s Slipper)
- Cypripedium californicum (California Lady’s Slipper)
References
- Flora of North America: Cypripedium Parviflorum
- RHS: Cypripedium Parviflorum
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Cypripedium Parviflorum
