cypripedium

Orchids are the strangest and most beautiful plants. There are those who consider them the princesses of the garden, since their flowers, of bright colors and curious shapes, stand out from the rest. But there is one that is even more beautiful if possible. Its scientific name is Cypripedium calceolus.

Although there are many who call it a lady’s clog. If you want to know everything about her, you have come to the right place .

Origin and characteristics

Cypripedium calceolus

Our protagonist is a terrestrial orchid native to the entire northern hemisphere, from Europe, Asia and North America. Its scientific name is, as we said, Cypripedium calceolusand grows in open wooded areas, on calcareous soils. In several countries it is a protected species because in many parts of Europe its populations have decreased.

It is characterized by having 3-4 whole amplexicaule leaves, grass green in color, which are about 20 centimeters long. The flowers are clog-shaped, which is where the common name comes from, and they are yellow, with brown petals. It blooms from May to July.

What are their cares?

Cypripedium in flower

If you want to have a copy, we recommend that you provide it with the following care:

  • Location: outside, in semi-shade.
  • Earth:
    • Garden: calcareous soils, with good drainage.
    • Pot: universal growing substrate mixed with 30% perlite.
  • Irrigation: 3-4 times a week in summer, somewhat less the rest of the year.
  • Subscriber: from early spring to late summer with specific fertilizers for orchids, following the instructions specified on the package.
  • Multiplication: by seeds in spring.
  • Pruning: you don’t need it. You just have to remove the withered flowers and dry leaves.
  • Rusticity: it is a plant that supports cold and frost better than many other orchids, but it needs protection if the temperature drops below -4ºC.

What did you think of the orchid Cypripedium calceolus? Have you heard of her?