Moccasin Flower
cypripedium calceolus
Also known as: ["Lady's Slipper Orchid","Yellow Lady's Slipper"]
Overview
A rare and striking terrestrial orchid with distinctive slipper-shaped flowers, native to temperate regions of Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Cypripedium |
| Botanical Name: | Cypripedium calceolus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden or sheltered outdoor pot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Humus-rich, loamy soil with excellent drainage; resembles natural woodland soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours; partial shade during peak sun hours; adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; protect from direct midday sun; provide dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Avoid direct sun; use sheer curtains indoors; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; maintain consistent moisture; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F); prefers cooler nights (45–55°F); avoid extreme fluctuations.
Keep away from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from heat spikes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted balanced fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize after watering; stop in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; rarely from seed due to complex germination requirements.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Carefully divide rhizomes.
- Replant with buds just below soil surface.
- Water gently.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth begins.
Environment
High humidity, partial shade, and consistent moisture.
Medium
Humus-rich, well-draining soil with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
New growth may appear within weeks; establishment takes 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife, gloves, small trowel.
Quick Tips
Divide only healthy rhizomes; maintain consistent moisture; protect from direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base; trim spent flower stalks after blooming.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove old soil; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining mix.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check root health; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter like compost; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, bud drop, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf damage, or dormancy if too cold; may lead to root rot in wet conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or dormancy; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; rinse pot periodically to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted orchid fertilizer (¼ strength) every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCypripedium calceolus is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCypripedium calceolus is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCypripedium calceolus is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though it is not typically used as a food source.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cypripedium calceolus easy to grow?
A: No, it is extremely challenging to cultivate and requires specialized conditions.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: Why is this orchid rare?
A: It has specific habitat requirements and is often over-collected in the wild.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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