Yellow Lady's Slipper
cypripedium parviflorum
Also known as: ["Small Yellow Lady's Slipper","Yellow Cypripedium"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid native to North America, known for its distinctive yellow slipper-shaped flower.
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 parviflorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden or shaded, cool greenhouse
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Humus-rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 2–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light is ideal.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light if moving from deep shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Avoid direct sunlight; provide filtered light; adjust light exposure gradually.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to slightly dry between waterings
Maintain consistent moisture without saturation; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; maintain consistent moisture; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler nights.
Protect from frost; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted balanced fertilizer
Avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed propagation (challenging).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully.
- Replant at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth begins.
Environment
High humidity, partial shade, and consistent moisture for seed germination.
Medium
Humus-rich, well-draining soil with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; may aid seed germination.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate establishment; seed propagation: 1–3 years to flowering.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife, gloves, pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Ensure rhizomes have healthy buds; maintain consistent moisture during establishment.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back old stems at the base; thin out crowded growth to improve light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and aesthetics.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove only necessary parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; ensure proper drainage; handle roots carefully.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; avoid wetting the leaves to minimize fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for moisture retention; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can damage roots and slow growth; may enter dormancy in winter.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity and water more frequently if needed.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early summer).
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCypripedium parviflorum is not considered toxic to cats. No documented cases of toxicity exist following ingestion by felines. The plant is safe for cats to encounter in natural environments.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCypripedium parviflorum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines. The plant is generally safe for dogs to encounter in natural settings.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCypripedium parviflorum, commonly known as the yellow lady's slipper, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, some historical uses suggest mild medicinal properties, particularly in traditional remedies for anxiety and nervous disorders. No significant toxic effects have been documented in modern literature.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cypripedium parviflorum easy to grow?
A: No, it is challenging to cultivate and requires specific conditions.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies.
Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
