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Description
Cypripedium Passerinum, also known as the Yellow Lady’s Slipper or Lady’s Slipper Orchid, is a rare and endangered species of orchid that is native to North America. It is a member of the Cypripedium genus, which is known for its large, showy flowers and slipper-shaped lip that serves as a trap for pollinators. The Yellow Lady’s Slipper is one of the most sought-after orchids by collectors and enthusiasts due to its delicate beauty and scarcity.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Cypripedium |
Appearance
The Yellow Lady’s Slipper is a perennial plant that can grow up to 90 cm tall. It has a single stem with 3-5 leaves that are elliptical in shape and can grow up to 15 cm long. The flowers are large and showy, measuring up to 7 cm across, and are yellow with maroon spots. The lip of the flower is slipper-shaped and serves as a trap for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer and can produce up to 10 flowers per stem.
Care Guide
The Yellow Lady’s Slipper is a fragile plant that requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips to ensure its health:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Water it regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the dormant period.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand.
- Sunlight: The Yellow Lady’s Slipper prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant grows in hardiness zones 3 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yellow Lady’s Slipper is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers by eating them.
- Fungal Diseases: The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew.
To prevent these problems, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil, and avoid overhead watering. Use a fungicide or insecticide if necessary.
Habitat
The Yellow Lady’s Slipper is found in moist, shady habitats such as wetlands, bogs, and forests. It grows in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant is native to North America and can be found from eastern Canada to the eastern United States.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Yellow Lady’s Slipper easy to grow?
A: No, the plant is quite challenging to grow and requires specific care.
Q: Can the Yellow Lady’s Slipper be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space for the roots to grow and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Can the Yellow Lady’s Slipper be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through division. Divide the plant in early spring when new growth appears.
Q: Why is the Yellow Lady’s Slipper endangered?
A: The plant is endangered due to habitat loss, over-collection, and destruction of its natural habitat.
Related Plants
- Cypripedium acaule
- Cypripedium californicum
- Cypripedium calceolus
- Cypripedium candidum
- Cypripedium guttatum
References
- US Department of Agriculture. (2021). Cypripedium passerinum. Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CYPA3
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Cypripedium passerinum. Plant Finder. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281805&isprofile=1
- North American Orchid Conservation Center. (2021). Cypripedium passerinum. https://northamericanorchidcenter.org/cypripedium-passerinum/
